Donny Osmond has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his brother Alan, calling him a "protector and guide" after Alan, the oldest member of the chart-topping, famous family band, The Osmonds, passed away at the age of 76. Donny took to social media to share the news with fans and honor Alan, whom he called "our leader in every sense of the word".
"This is one of the earliest pictures I have of my brother Alan and me. Even back then, you can see that he had his arm around me, watching over me. That’s who he was. My protector. My guide. The one who quietly carried so much responsibility so the rest of us could shine," wrote Donny, 68, alongside the picture of a young Alan and Donny.
© Instagram"Alan was our leader in every sense of the word. His tireless work helped build everything we became. I will always be grateful for the sacrifices he made and the love he showed — not just to me, but to every member of our family. I owe him more than I can ever fully express."
"I love you, Alan. Thank you for always being there for me. Til we meet again, Brother Donny," he concluded.
© Getty ImagesAlan was diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) in 1987. The disease attacks the central nervous system, causing various difficult symptoms, including issues walking, fatigue, numbness, and vision impairment.
Alan had to retire from the stage as his mobility declined. But his motto remained: "I may have MS, but MS does NOT have me!"
© FilmMagicAlan was the third son of George and Olive Osmond, but the oldest of the performing "original four."
Alan, Wayne, Merrill, and Jay Osmond started the musical venture known as The Osmonds, and it later included younger brothers Donny and Jimmy. Alan's vision helped the brothers transition from a barbershop quartet on The Andy Williams Show to a pop phenomenon, with Alan taking control as a songwriter, composer, and "protector" of the family.
© Getty ImagesHe produced some of their biggest hits, including "One Bad Apple" and "Down By The Lazy River".
The family starred in their own TV series in 1972 until it transitioned into a variety show with younger siblings Donny and Marie. But even when Donny and Marie eclipsed the group with their solo fame, Alan continued to support them. He produced their shows to ensure the tone kept his siblings true to their wholesome values.
They were raised in Utah in the Mormon faith.
Alan married his wife, Suzanne, in 1974, and they had eight sons together who have followed in their family’s footsteps to form The Osmond Boys, also known as the Second Generation.
