Introduction:
Merrill Osmond: The Voice, The Faith, and The Family That Saved Him
After 60 years in show business, the former Osmonds frontman opens up about love, loss, and the music that never stopped healing him.
When Merrill Osmond looks back on six decades in show business, he does so with a smile that carries both gratitude and quiet strength.
“It’s hard to believe,” he says softly. “Sixty years in this business — not many can say that. I still pinch myself sometimes.”
But as he quickly reminds you, it almost never happened. Long before The Osmonds became one of America’s most wholesome musical dynasties, Merrill’s parents were told not to have any more children.
“There was a hearing loss issue in the family,” Merrill recalls. “Doctors told my parents to stop. But they didn’t. They believed in something greater — and I’m forever grateful they did.”
Two of Merrill’s brothers were born deaf. What could have been a tragedy instead became the foundation of a family legacy that would inspire millions. “We weren’t supposed to be entertainers,” he says. “We just wanted to raise some money to buy hearing aids. That’s how the Osmond Brothers started.”
From Small Town to Stardom
Merrill was just four years old when he first stood on stage — a tiny boy with a big voice and an even bigger heart. By the time he was a teenager, he and his brothers were captivating audiences across the world.
“I remember being on The Andy Williams Show,” he says. “That was our childhood — singing, smiling, and just loving every moment. Those shows are how we documented our lives back then. We didn’t have social media. We had television, and that was enough.”
The Osmonds went on to sell millions of records, with their clean-cut image, family harmonies, and unshakable faith making them household names. Along the way, Merrill shared moments few could dream of. “Meeting Elvis Presley was one of the highlights of my life,” he says, his eyes lighting up. “And meeting the Queen of England. I mean, who gets to do that? It’s been an incredible journey.”
Faith, Family, and Finding Peace
Today, Merrill’s focus has shifted from the roar of the crowd to something quieter — something more meaningful. “We need music now more than ever,” he says earnestly. “It heals. It unites. It gives hope.”
This Christmas, Merrill will embark on a tour with his family — including his wife and some of their children — performing beloved Christmas songs and a few timeless Osmond hits. “It’s about reminding people what the season is really about — love, faith, family, and gratitude.”
Those values have guided Merrill through some of his darkest times, including personal battles with anxiety and depression. “I’ve struggled,” he admits. “I don’t know where it came from, but I’ve had anxiety and depression. And I want people to know that it’s okay. You’re going to be fine. It just takes time.”
The Next Generation and Healing Conversations
Merrill’s son, Justin Osmond, was born deaf — a full-circle moment in the family’s story. Together, father and son now co-host a podcast that opens up conversations about faith, mental health, and resilience.
“People want to know that someone they see on TV puts their pants on the same way they do,” Merrill says with a laugh. “They want real. They want honesty. And I think that’s what we give them.”
A Brother’s Strength
Family has always been the anchor of the Osmonds — something that became especially important when Merrill’s brother Jimmy suffered a stroke last year.
“I’ve seen him a few times,” Merrill says softly. “He’s doing great, considering what he’s been through. He’s enjoying life, spending time with his family. He’s happy — and that’s what matters.”
The strength of their family bond has carried them through every high and low. “That’s what families are for,” Merrill says. “We support each other through everything — through the ups, the downs, and all the music in between.”
Still Singing, Still Grateful
Even after all these years, the stage remains Merrill’s sanctuary. “When I perform, the anxiety leaves me,” he confides. “When you see the audience singing your songs back to you, it’s the greatest high in the world. That connection — that’s everything.”
As he prepares for his next tour and continues to share his message of hope, Merrill Osmond’s legacy feels larger than ever — not just as a musician, but as a man who turned hardship into harmony.
“It’s been a wonderful journey,” he says, smiling. “And it’s still going. The music never really ends.”