Introduction:
In a rare and deeply personal conversation, Merrill Osmond — one of the world’s most recognizable music stars and the lead singer of The Osmonds, a group that has sold over 100 million records — sat down to discuss his new memoir Black Bear and the extraordinary life behind one of America’s most beloved entertainment families.
For millions, The Osmonds were the clean-cut, harmony-perfecting, wildly talented family that captured hearts across the globe. But as Merrill reveals in his book, their success carried pressures, sacrifices, heartbreaks, and triumphs that shaped the family in profound ways.
A Childhood of Discipline, Pressure, and Perfection
Millions first met the Osmonds on The Andy Williams Show, where the brothers charmed audiences with polished routines and effortless harmonies. But behind the scenes, Merrill recalls intense pressure few fans ever saw.
“Every week we had to learn a new skill — and perform it flawlessly,” he shared. “If we didn’t, we wouldn’t be on the next show.”
Whether it was ice dancing, complex choreography, or musical arrangements, the family was expected to master every challenge with perfection. Merrill credits his father’s strict, military-style discipline for shaping their work ethic and performance excellence.
“Had it not been for a dad who was somewhat military in nature, we wouldn’t have been able to accomplish half of what we did.”
The Hidden Pain Behind the Spotlight
While the Osmonds projected a wholesome, joyful image, Merrill’s personal journey was marked by painful private struggles. One of the most heartbreaking revelations in Black Bear is that he was sexually assaulted by a tutor during his youth.
He admitted he hesitated to share such a traumatic experience publicly.
“I debated whether I should even bring that out… But I’ve learned that if I went through it, then others can relate too. People need to know they’re not alone.”
Merrill has battled anxiety and depression and says speaking openly has helped other survivors find healing. His vulnerability brings a human, relatable dimension to a man who spent decades in the spotlight.
A Family Built on Service — and the Legacy of Hearing Loss
The Osmonds’ entrance into show business began for a reason few fans know: to raise money so their two older brothers, both deaf, could afford hearing aids.
“We started a little barbershop quartet to make 20 or 50 dollars,” Merrill explained. “That’s why we got into the business — to help family.”
Today, that legacy continues through Merrill’s son, Justin, who is 90% deaf. Justin authored Hearing the Call and completed a 250-mile run to raise awareness and provide hearing aids to children in need. The younger Osmond has helped provide millions of hearing aids to third-world countries.
“We would have never been in the business had my parents not had two deaf children,” Merrill said. “Destiny works in amazing ways.”
Unity Through Loss, Fame, and Family Challenges
Despite persistent rumors of tension among the Osmond brothers, Merrill clarified that their bond remains unbreakable.
“My relationship with my brothers is in cement,” he said. “All families have their squabbles, but we love each other — period.”
He also spoke candidly about the devastating loss of his brother Wayne, who passed away recently. Wayne’s death made Merrill think deeply about family, purpose, and stepping away from the spotlight.
“Wayne never wanted to be in the entertainment industry — he just wanted to play guitar. Toward the end, he said, ‘I just want to sit in my chair with my grandkids.’ And that’s where I am now too.”
A Life of Manic Fame — and a Quiet Retirement
At their peak, The Osmonds experienced levels of hysteria unmatched even by modern boy bands.
“Paul McCartney told us, ‘You’re not experiencing hysteria — you’re experiencing mania.’”
The screams were deafening. Their concerts chaotic. Their fame overwhelming. Yet the group also surprised critics by defying expectations with the hard-rock single “Crazy Horses,” famously cited as Ozzy Osbourne’s favorite Osmond song.
Now, after 65 years in the business, Merrill says he is ready to slow down.
“I’ve been in it. I’ve done it. I just want to be Grandpa now.”
With 17 grandchildren, he says family is his greatest treasure.
A Legacy of Strength, Faith, and Giving Back
Reflecting on his decades in entertainment, Merrill offered a philosophy that has guided the Osmonds’ family mission:
“Where much is given, much is expected.”
And through triumphs, tragedies, global fame, personal struggles, and faith, Merrill Osmond continues to embody that belief. Black Bear is not just the story of a music icon — it is the story of survival, resilience, love, and a family whose influence spans generations.
As Dolly Parton writes on the book’s cover:
“Merrill, I will always love you.”
A fitting tribute to a man whose life has touched millions.