Fans have joined the iconic Osmond family in mourning the loss of Wayne Osmond, a beloved member of the chart-topping pop group The Osmonds, who “passed away peacefully” on January 1 at the age of 73.
Wayne, best known for hits like Crazy Horses, Love Me For A Reason, and Let Me In, was surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments. His daughter, Amy Cook, announced the news on social media, sharing heartfelt words about his legacy.
“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children,” she said.
“His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world.
“He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert. We love him and will miss him dearly.”
Born on August 28, 1951, Wayne began his career in 1958 as part of a barbershop quartet with his brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay. The group later expanded to include younger siblings Donny and Jimmy, forming the globally adored Osmonds. The band quickly rose to fame, selling over 77 million records worldwide, earning five UK Top 10 singles—including the chart-topping Love Me For A Reason—and releasing four UK Top 10 albums.
Wayne, known for arranging the group’s harmonies with his perfect pitch and playing lead guitar, retired from performing in 2007 due to health issues.
As news of Wayne’s passing broke, fellow entertainment heavyweights joined fans in paying tribute and reflecting on the “light, laughter, and love” he brought to “everyone who knew him”.
I was saddened to hear of Wayne Osmond’s passing. Wayne and his brothers are a talented lot and their performances were electric. Having them join me on stage twice a night was a thrill I’ll never forget. My heart goes out to his wife Kathlyn and their children as well as the… pic.twitter.com/VM8MBLOW0Q
— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) January 2, 2025
My dear brother Wayne passed away peacefully last night from a stroke. I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to visit him in the hospital before he passed.
Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him, especially me. He was the ultimate optimist… pic.twitter.com/J0I2W2QwMG
— Donny Osmond (@donnyosmond) January 2, 2025
RIP Wayne Osmond. My first favourite group growing up. When my friends were all loving the Bay City Rollers I was kissing my Donny Osmond pillow every night. pic.twitter.com/DCVNlpUQiG
— Suzanne Fearn (@suzannefearn) January 2, 2025
I’m just sad tonight
RIP Wayne Osmond a truly lovely man. pic.twitter.com/J9HBxEJmJx
— Jan Harvey (@TheJanHarvey) January 2, 2025
Very sad to hear of the passing of Wayne Osmond. They were some of my first musical heroes, that family.
Sending all positive and healing energies to @donnyosmond, his family and friends, all of Wayne’s family and friends, and Osmond fans around the world. 💔 pic.twitter.com/lYXLfTfqce
— Only a 1-s goddes 🇨🇦 (she/her) (@rgoddes) January 2, 2025
RIP Wayne Osmond. I’m so sorry to the entire Osmond family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I grew up with the Osmond family & love them all. You will be missed 🧡💔😢 pic.twitter.com/sh1rrJrLut
— Summergirl58 (@summergirl58) January 2, 2025
So sad to hear about Wayne Osmond’s passing. His music will live on forever. Sending love to his loved ones and fans.
— Ali Heib (@hieb_ali) January 2, 2025
Wayne is survived by his wife Kathlyn, their five children, and his siblings.
-with PA.