“Marie Osmond’s Unexpected Decision: Why She Plans to Leave Her 7 Kids Nothing After Her Passing”
Marie Osmond, the legendary singer, actress, and television personality, has had a career that spans decades and encompasses nearly every corner of the entertainment industry. From her iconic role in the Osmond Brothers to her solo success as a chart-topping country artist, Osmond has built a lasting legacy. Yet, despite her stellar career, there’s one unexpected aspect of her life that has raised eyebrows: her decision to leave her seven children nothing after her passing.
Born on October 13, 1959, in Ogden, Utah, Marie Osmond was destined for stardom. She came from a large, showbiz-oriented family—she was the only girl among eight siblings. While her brothers—famously known as the Osmond Brothers—rose to fame with their hit appearances on The Andy Williams Show in 1962, young Marie was already on the radar, even though she was still just a toddler. The Osmonds’ family band quickly became a global sensation, known for their harmonies, infectious energy, and wholesome image.
As a child, Marie idolized her brothers and loved being part of the group. But as she grew older, she felt the urge to carve her own path. By the early ’70s, her solo career took off, and her breakout hit, Paper Roses, topped the country charts. This was just the beginning of an illustrious solo career that included hits like In My Little Corner of the World and Who’s Sorry Now?
Marie’s Path to Individual Stardom
By 1974, Osmond and her older brother Donny teamed up for a collaboration that would go down in history. Their duet I’m Leaving It All Up to You became a fan favorite, and in 1976, they launched the beloved Donny & Marie TV show. Their on-screen chemistry and charm made them an iconic duo, winning over audiences with their variety show format, celebrity interviews, and musical performances.
Even after the show ended in 1979, Marie’s career continued to evolve. She kept the magic alive in Las Vegas, performing alongside Donny for 11 years, and later ventured into acting, appearing in films like Rose Petal Place and Side By Side: The Story of the Osmond Family. She also became a co-host on The Talk, adding another chapter to her already diverse career.
Overcoming Adversity
Marie’s journey to success was far from easy. As a young adult, she faced an immense challenge when her family lost nearly $80 million—about $100 million in today’s money—due to financial mismanagement. Marie was just 18 at the time, living in New York City, and it was a phone call from her mother that jolted her into action.
“I knew I had to step up and take charge of my life,” she recalls. This wake-up call pushed her to build a career on hard work, determination, and resilience, values instilled in her by her parents. It was this spirit that helped Marie bounce back and achieve even greater success in both her personal and professional life.
Her hard work paid off in spades: three best-selling books, a spot on Dancing with the Stars (where she finished in fifth place), and continued success on stage, TV, and in business. In fact, Marie’s career shows no signs of slowing down. As she says, “I probably will work until I’m dead because it’s always been a safe place for me.”
Family First: A Legacy Beyond the Spotlight
While Marie’s career was thriving, she also dedicated herself to raising a large family. The 64-year-old star is a mother to eight children, including four adopted kids. But her personal life hasn’t been without its heartbreaks. In 2010, Marie tragically lost her son, Michael, at the age of 18.
Her remaining children—Stephen Jr., Jessica, Rachel, Michael, Abigail, Brandon, Matthew, and Brianna—have all grown into remarkable adults. Stephen Jr., a successful actor, is married with children, while Jessica, who is openly gay, lives happily in Los Angeles with her wife. Other children, such as Rachel, Brandon, and Brianna, have pursued their own paths, with many choosing to keep their lives private.
Despite their varying paths, Marie takes immense pride in their accomplishments. She has praised her daughters for their devotion to motherhood, calling herself a “fun grandma” who cherishes time with her grandchildren. Her advice to them? “Grandma has a job.”
A Surprising Decision: Leaving Her Children Nothing
While Marie has always put family first, she’s made a decision that has left many questioning her legacy. Despite her immense wealth, she has stated that she plans to leave her seven surviving children nothing after she passes. Instead, she intends to donate her estate to charity.
“I want them to learn the value of hard work,” she explained in a recent interview. “I don’t want them to think money is what’s going to make them happy.” It’s a decision that highlights her deep belief in the importance of self-sufficiency and responsibility, and it reflects the lessons she learned growing up in the entertainment business.
Marie’s decision to leave her children nothing may seem controversial to some, but it’s part of a larger philosophy she holds dear: that true wealth isn’t measured in material possessions, but in character and hard work.
A Lasting Legacy
Marie Osmond’s career may be legendary, but it’s the values she instilled in her children—and the lessons they continue to pass on—that will endure long after she’s gone. Her decision to forgo leaving her kids an inheritance is part of a broader vision for their futures: a future where they succeed on their own terms, grounded in the work ethic and integrity she’s championed throughout her life.
Marie’s story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and dedication—not just to her career, but to her family. As she continues to navigate both the spotlight and the challenges of motherhood, her legacy is sure to be defined not just by her career, but by the impact she’s had on those closest to her.
