When the Osmond brothers started their music careers back in the day, they stole the hearts of millions almost overnight. They quickly rose to fame and topped the charts, becoming fan-favorites. The screaming crowds who were anticipating each of the Osmonds’ new single, album, and performance, created a frenzy known as the Osmondmania.
When the youngest of the brothers, Donny Osmond went solo, people fell for the charisma of the sweet boy and Donny’s fame only grew bigger and bigger over the years.
When he first took the stage, he was only five years old, and what is beautiful about him and his career is that it still lasts.
At the age of 16, Donny met then 15-year-old cheerleader Debbie, who would become his wife of over 40 years.
At the time, Donny believed he should keep their relationship a secret because of his popularity so they dated for three and half years before the world learned of their relationship.
”I dated her secretly for three and a half years because I didn’t want Tiger Beat [magazine] to find out,” he told the Drew Barrymore show.
“And then once the news got out that I got married…
“And maybe some of you [the audience] did this, I won’t hold it against you.
“The fans literally had Donny Osmond record burning parties and sent the most scathing letters to Debbie.
“She’s this sweet little girl from Montana, she’s the most amazing woman and saved my life.”
When they decided to tie the knot, Donny’s father thought it would destroy his career.
Donny spoke to The Guardian in 2017 of the time he was 20 and told his dad he would marry Debbie Glenn, saying, “When I told my dad, he said, ‘Well, there goes your career, but this is ushering in your personal life.”
He was a celeb known worldwide and Debbie was an ordinary girl, but their love for one another kept them going for over four decades.
“There was something simple about her, and I lived a very complicated life,” he said once in an interview.
Donny and Debra became grandparents for the first time in 2005, when Jeremy and Melissa welcomed son Dylan. This was a joyous moment for the Osmond family who tend to spend as much time together as possible.
Donny, who is super busy performing and making music, still finds the time to spend with his grandchildren.
His grandchildren are involved in plenty of activities, and that includes sports and arts, and Donny is always by their side to support their dreams. One time, he flew home just to see one of his grandchildren play a football match. After the win, he expressed his satisfaction and said how proud he was.
Donny Osmond’s journey from a child prodigy to a music legend spans decades, and his personal life has been just as remarkable as his career. Today, he is not only a devoted husband but also a proud grandfather who cherishes family above all else.
After Donny and Debbie tied the knot in 1978, they built a strong foundation of love and mutual respect. Despite the challenges of living in the spotlight, Debbie remained Donny’s anchor. Their marriage thrived, even when fans initially reacted harshly to the news. Reflecting on those turbulent times, Donny often emphasizes how Debbie’s unwavering support helped him stay grounded amidst the chaos of fame.
A Growing Family
Over their 45 years of marriage, Donny and Debbie raised five sons: Donald Jr., Jeremy, Brandon, Christopher, and Joshua. As their children grew up, the Osmond household became a close-knit family unit where love, values, and faith were central. Donny often credits his wife for being the glue that held their family together, especially during busy touring schedules and demanding work commitments.
In 2005, the Osmond family celebrated the arrival of their first grandchild, Dylan, born to Donny’s second son, Jeremy, and his wife, Melissa. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in Donny’s life—one that brought immense joy and a new sense of purpose.
Embracing Grandfatherhood
Today, Donny and Debbie are proud grandparents to 13 grandchildren. Despite his hectic schedule as a performer, Donny prioritizes family time. He loves attending their activities, whether it’s a sports event, a school play, or a recital. For him, these moments are priceless.
In one instance, Donny flew home between concerts to watch one of his grandchildren play in a football match. His team won the game, and Donny couldn’t hide his pride. He shared the experience with fans, saying, “These are the moments that make life worth living.” His ability to balance an illustrious career with being a present and supportive grandfather exemplifies his dedication to family.
A Legacy of Love and Dedication
Donny’s grandchildren are involved in various pursuits, from athletics to the arts, and he is always their biggest cheerleader. He believes in fostering their passions and helping them achieve their dreams. The Osmond family is often seen spending holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions together, reinforcing the bond that keeps them so close.
For Donny, the most rewarding part of his legacy isn’t just his music career—it’s the strong family he has built with Debbie. He frequently shares moments with his grandchildren on social media, giving fans a glimpse into his life as a doting grandparent.
As he continues to perform and inspire audiences worldwide, Donny Osmond remains a testament to the power of love, resilience, and family. Whether he’s lighting up the stage or cheering from the sidelines at a grandchild’s event, Donny proves that success is most meaningful when shared with the ones you love.
