Alan Osmond Dead at 73: Cause of Death & Everything We Know

Alan Osmond, the musical icon best known as the oldest member of pop group The Osmonds, has died aged 73.

Osmond had been suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) since his diagnosis in 1987. His family confirmed his pasing in a statement, before paying tribute to his life and legacy: "His positive outlook was an inspiration to many, and he donated much of his time speaking at MS events, encouraging individuals like himself on how to mentally and physically deal with the advancement and treatment of the disease." (via The Mirror)

The singer reportedly passed away at 8.30pm on Monday, April 20.

The Osmonds shot to fame in the 1970s as a family pop sensation, with Alan performing alongside his brothers Donny, Wayne, Merrill, and Jay. Alan was the main songwriter of the band, composing major pop hits such as "One Bad Apple" and "Crazy Horses".

Despite being bound by strict child labor laws that made it difficult to person to the extent they wanted, the Osmonds became hugely famous in America throughout the 1970s and charmed their audiences with sentimental pop songs, stylish outfits, and bold performance routines.

"We could only work so many hours a day," Alan once said, "so we'd take the work home and make sure we nailed it on the first take."

After his MS diagnosis in 1987, Alan continued performing with his brothers but began to suffer from decreased mobility and struggled to physically perform. He officially left the group in 2007.

"I was on stage and couldn't raise my right hand. I trusted my Heavenly Father. You have to have opposition in life - this was my test."

MS is a lifelong neurological condition that occurs in the brain and spinal cord. According to the NHS, symptoms can include "problems with your eyes or your vision, such as blurred vision or eye pain", and "muscle cramps, spasms and stiffness."

Despite his ill health, Alan Osmond found respite in religion. He and his brothers were all members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or the Mormon Church. His final social media post reflected his unwavering faith: "We love you, young and old, men and women. So does the Lord! God is relentless in His loving pursuit of each of you. Keep the commandments and be true to the covenants so many of you have made to guide you along the covenant path."

Alan is survived by his wife, Suzanne and their eight sons, along with their 30 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.