Short Summary
Donny Osmond is an American singer, actor, and television host known for his early success as a teen idol in the 1970s. He gained fame as a member of the Osmonds, a family music group, and later achieved solo success with hit songs such as "Puppy Love." He has also enjoyed a successful television career, including co-hosting the popular variety show "Donny & Marie" with his sister, Marie Osmond. His enduring appeal has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades.
Early Life & Education
Donny Osmond was born on December 9, 1957, in Ogden, Utah, to Olive May and George Virl Osmond. He was the seventh of nine children in the Osmond family, which was deeply involved in music from an early age. The Osmond brothers began performing together as a barbershop quartet, gaining recognition on "The Andy Williams Show." Donny joined his brothers on the show when he was only five years old. His early exposure to the entertainment industry, combined with his family's strong musical background, set the stage for his future career. Formal education took a back seat to his burgeoning career, as he was homeschooled to accommodate his busy schedule.
Career Highlights
Donny Osmond's career took off in the early 1970s as he became the lead singer of the Osmonds, scoring hits like "One Bad Apple." He transitioned to a solo career with the release of "Puppy Love," which solidified his status as a teen idol. During the late 1970s, he co-hosted the television variety show "Donny & Marie" with his sister, which became a cultural phenomenon. In the 1990s, he reinvented himself with a successful role in the musical "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." His later career included a Las Vegas residency with Marie, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.
Major Achievements
- Released the hit single "Puppy Love," which became a defining song of his solo career.
- Co-hosted the popular variety show "Donny & Marie," reaching millions of viewers each week.
- Starred in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," revitalizing his career in the 1990s.
- Won "Dancing with the Stars" in 2009, broadening his appeal to a new generation.
- Performed successful Las Vegas residencies with his sister Marie, drawing large audiences.
Famous Quotes
- "You are who you are today because of the choices you made yesterday."
- "I may be the most recognizable name in the genre of 'boy next door'."
Interesting Facts
- Donny was only five years old when he first appeared on national television.
- He struggled with stage fright for much of his early career.
- He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has spoken about his faith publicly.
- Donny has five sons with his wife, Debbie, whom he married in 1978.
- He became a grandfather for the first time in 2005.
Legacy / Influence
Donny Osmond's legacy in the entertainment industry is marked by his ability to adapt and reinvent himself over decades. From his beginnings as a teen idol to his success on Broadway and in Las Vegas, he has remained a beloved figure in popular culture. His influence extends beyond music, as he has also been a television host and performer, inspiring new generations of entertainers.
FAQ
Q: Why is Donny Osmond famous?
A: He is famous for being a teen idol, singer, actor, and television host, notably as part of the Osmonds and for the "Donny & Marie" show.
Q: What was Donny Osmond's biggest hit song?
A: "Puppy Love" is considered one of his biggest solo hit songs.
Q: Did Donny Osmond win "Dancing with the Stars"?
A: Yes, he won the ninth season of "Dancing with the Stars" in 2009.
