Donny Osmond, an American singer, actor, dancer, and television personality, has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for over five decades. With a net worth of $8 million as of 2025, Osmond’s career spans from his early days as a teen idol with The Osmonds to his successful solo ventures and television hosting roles. Known for his versatility and charm, Osmond has captivated audiences worldwide with his music, stage performances, and television appearances. In this article, we explore Donny Osmond’s life, career, and the ventures that have defined his enduring legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Donald Clark Osmond was born on December 9, 1957, in Ogden, Utah, making him 67 years old as of 2025. He was raised in a devoutly religious family as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Osmonds, a family of nine siblings, were musically inclined from a young age. Encouraged by their parents, the Osmond brothers formed a singing group that would eventually rise to fame as The Osmonds.
Donny, the seventh of nine siblings, joined the group at an early age and quickly became a fan favorite. His boyish charm and impressive vocals helped the group gain popularity, setting the stage for his successful solo career.
The Osmonds and Early Stardom
The Osmonds first gained national attention in the 1960s after being invited to perform on The Andy Williams Show. Donny made his solo television debut at just six years old, singing “You Are My Sunshine,” which instantly won the hearts of audiences. As the youngest member of the group, Donny’s popularity surged, making him a teen idol in the 1970s.
The Osmonds achieved significant success with hits like One Bad Apple and Crazy Horses, blending pop and rock with a wholesome image that appealed to a broad audience. Their music not only topped charts but also inspired a massive fan following. Donny’s solo career took off in the early 1970s with hits such as Go Away Little Girl and Puppy Love, cementing his status as a teen heartthrob.
Solo Career: Reinvention and Resurgence
Despite the challenges of transitioning from a teen idol to a mature artist, Donny Osmond successfully reinvented himself in the 1980s. The shift was marked by the release of Soldier of Love in 1989, a pop single that reached number two on the U.S. charts. The success of this track revitalized his career, followed by another hit, Sacred Emotion.
The 1990s saw Osmond exploring different musical genres, including pop and adult contemporary. He collaborated with Dweezil Zappa on a cover of the Bee Gees’ Stayin’ Alive and contributed to soundtracks for films like The Land Before Time IX and Disney’s Mulan. His performance of I’ll Make a Man Out of You in Mulan remains one of his most recognized songs globally.
In the 2000s, Osmond’s versatility was on full display with the release of a Christmas album and his seventeenth solo album, The Soundtrack of My Life. The latter included a collaboration with Stevie Wonder on the track My Cherie Amour. The album’s blend of classic covers and new material showcased Osmond’s enduring appeal and vocal prowess.
Television Career: From Variety Shows to Reality TV
Donny Osmond’s charm and stage presence translated seamlessly to television. Alongside his sister Marie, he co-hosted The Mike Douglas Show, leading to their own variety show, Donny & Marie, which ran from 1976 to 1979. The show’s mix of music, comedy, and wholesome entertainment struck a chord with audiences and remains a cultural touchstone for fans of 1970s television.
In the late 1990s, the siblings revived their partnership with a talk show version of Donny & Marie that aired until 2000. Osmond’s hosting capabilities extended to game shows, including Pyramid from 2002 to 2004 and the British game show Identity. His charisma and quick wit made him a popular host, further solidifying his TV career.
In 2009, Donny Osmond won the ninth season of Dancing with the Stars alongside his professional dance partner Kym Johnson. His performances, marked by a mix of technique and showmanship, won over judges and viewers alike. He later returned as a guest judge for the show’s 18th season and also appeared as a judge on the British version, Strictly Come Dancing, in 2014.
Osmond’s reality TV appearances include The Masked Singer, where his vocal versatility and stage presence continued to impress a new generation of fans.
Broadway and Theater Success
Donny Osmond’s theater career took off in the early 1980s with his role in Little Johnny Jones. Although the show was short-lived, it paved the way for his most iconic role as Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Osmond’s portrayal of Joseph spanned thousands of performances in the 1990s and included a filmed version in 1999.
His Broadway success continued with a role as Gaston in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in 2006. Originally slated for a nine-week run, Osmond’s performance was so well-received that the show’s run was extended due to popular demand.
In addition to Broadway, Donny and Marie Osmond’s Christmas musicals, including Donny & Marie: A Broadway Christmas, were major hits, showcasing their vocal talents and festive charm.
Las Vegas Residency and Financial Success
One of Donny and Marie Osmond’s most successful ventures was their residency at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, which ran for an impressive 11 years, from 2008 to 2019. The 90-minute show featured a mix of music, dance, and humor, drawing fans from around the world. In recognition of their success, the Flamingo’s showroom was renamed the Donny and Marie Theater.
The residency significantly bolstered Osmond’s net worth, contributing to his current wealth of $8 million. Alongside his earnings from music, television, and theater, the Las Vegas show played a key role in ensuring Osmond’s financial stability.
Personal Life: A Devoted Family Man
Donny Osmond married Debra Glenn in 1978, and the couple has five sons and ten grandchildren. Known for his devotion to family and faith, Osmond has managed to balance his demanding career with a strong commitment to his personal life. His social media often features moments with his family, endearing him further to fans who admire his grounded nature.