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Introduction
JUST IN: Two hours ago, fans around the world are devastated by the tragic news regarding Merrill Osmond – the legendary lead singer of the musical family The Osmonds. At the age of 72, he had…
Although initial reports circulated online claiming Merrill Osmond had passed away, the verified news confirms that it was his older brother Wayne Osmond who died earlier this year at the age of 73, not Merrill himself. Wayne’s death on January 1, 2025, was confirmed by family and multiple reputable news outlets, including Variety and ABC News, and was attributed to complications following a massive stroke. Variety+1 The Osmonds, one of the most beloved family acts in American music history, rose from humble beginnings in Ogden, Utah, to international fame in the 1970s with hits like “One Bad Apple,” “Yo‑Yo,” and “Down By the Lazy River.” Wikipedia Wayne was a co‑founder of the group and contributed deeply to its sound, performing as a singer and guitarist alongside his brothers. Wikipedia Fans and fellow musicians alike have expressed profound sorrow and remembrance for his life and career, highlighting his warmth, faith, and enduring impact on popular music. People.com In heartfelt social media tributes, brother Merrill praised Wayne’s humility, forgiveness, and unconditional love, reflecting the deep bond the family shared both on and off the stage. People.com Donny Osmond also shared that Wayne brought “so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him,” emphasizing the special place he held in the hearts of fans around the world. People.com Although the Osmonds’ most active years are behind them, the legacy of their music continues to resonate with generations of listeners, and tributes pouring in globally reflect how much the family and their music meant to so many people.