History of Donny Osmond in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 16, 2025

Donny Osmond is an American entertainer who rose to fame as a teen idol. Initially, he gained recognition as part of the Osmonds, a family musical group that achieved significant commercial success. He then launched a solo career in the early 1970s, further solidifying his popularity with several top ten hits. Beyond music, Osmond has also worked as a dancer, actor, and television host, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.

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Full Timeline

May 8, 1978: Marriage to Debra Glenn

On May 8, 1978, Donny Osmond married Debra Glenn in the Salt Lake Temple.

1979: End of Donny & Marie show

In 1979, the Donny & Marie show ended, leading to a public image struggle for Donny Osmond.

1999: Release of Autobiography

In 1999, Donny Osmond released his autobiography, Life is Just What You Make It: My Story So Far, co-written with Patricia Romanowski.

Life Is Just What You Make It : My Story So Far

Check it on Amazon

2005: Became a Grandparent

In 2005, Donny and Debra Osmond became grandparents.

September 2006: Returns to Broadway in Beauty and the Beast

In September 2006, Donny Osmond returned to Broadway as Gaston in Disney's Beauty and the Beast. He was initially scheduled for a nine-week run, but it was extended due to popular demand through December.

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July 2007: Final performance in Beauty and the Beast

On July 29, 2007, Donny Osmond played his final performance as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast.

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2008: Opposition to Same-Sex Marriage

In 2008, Donny Osmond commented on his opposition to same-sex marriage after the 2008 Proposition 8 in California.

March 2010: Criticism of Lady Gaga and Beyoncé

In March 2010, Donny Osmond criticized Lady Gaga and Beyoncé for using profanity and sex in their "Telephone" video.

December 2010: Donny & Marie – A Broadway Christmas

In December 2010, Donny Osmond and his sister, Marie, starred in Donny & Marie – A Broadway Christmas, at the Marquis Theatre.

January 2011: Extension of Donny & Marie – A Broadway Christmas

The Donny & Marie – A Broadway Christmas show was extended through January 2, 2011.

December 2011: Donny & Marie – Christmas in Chicago

In December 2011, Donny and Marie performed Donny & Marie – Christmas in Chicago at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts Oriental Theatre.

2013: Establishment of Donny Osmond Home

In 2013, Donny Osmond and his wife Debbie established Donny Osmond Home, a furniture and decor accessories collection, in collaboration with decor manufacturers.

December 2014: Broadway Show with Marie

In December 2014, Donny and Marie performed in a Broadway show, receiving positive reviews.

December 2024: Role as Pharaoh in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

In December 2024, Donny Osmond is set to play the role of Pharaoh in the upcoming production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Edinburgh Playhouse.