Challenges in the Life of Marie Osmond in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 4, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Marie Osmond's life and career.

Olive Marie Osmond is an American singer, actress, television personality, author, and businesswoman with a versatile decades-long career. She is best known for her successful career in country music, with her 1973 hit "Paper Roses" making her the youngest female artist to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. She achieved further number-one singles in the 1980s. Beyond music, Osmond gained prominence as a television personality, notably co-hosting "Donny & Marie" and "The Talk." She also ventured into acting with television films and Broadway performances, authored several books, and co-founded the Children's Miracle Network.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

May 1979: Cancellation of The Osmond Family Hour

In May 1979, "The Osmond Family Hour", formerly known as the "Donny & Marie" show, was cancelled after Marie Osmond experienced immense pressure to maintain a specific weight, which lead to health issues and exhaustion.

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1985: Divorced Stephen Lyle Craig

In 1985, Marie Osmond and Stephen Lyle Craig divorced due to the pressures of fame and scrutiny.

1999: Publicly Spoke About Postpartum Depression

In 1999, Marie Osmond publicly spoke about her battle with postpartum depression after the birth of her son, Matthew, detailing her experiences and challenges.

2000: Public Discussion of Postpartum Depression

Between 1998 and 2000, Marie Osmond publicly spoke about her struggles with postpartum depression.

2001: Detailed Postpartum Depression in "Behind the Smile"

In 2001, Marie Osmond provided a detailed account of her struggles with postpartum depression in her book, "Behind the Smile", including experiences with panic attacks and suicidal thoughts.

2001: Revealed Sexual Abuse in Book

In her 2001 book, Marie Osmond revealed that she had been sexually abused in her youth, though she did not disclose the identity of her abuser. She believed the abuse contributed to her struggles with postpartum depression and body dysmorphia.

August 2006: Denied Suicide Attempt

In August 2006, Marie Osmond's publicity team denied U.S. tabloid reports that she had attempted suicide, claiming she had suffered an adverse reaction to medication.

August 2007: Cast on Dancing with the Stars

In August 2007, Marie Osmond was cast on "Dancing with the Stars", a ballroom dancing program that paired celebrities with professional dancers for weekly live competitions.

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November 2007: Elimination from Dancing with the Stars

In November 2007, Marie Osmond was eliminated from "Dancing with the Stars", ultimately placing in third after experiencing breathing difficulties and fainting on air during an episode.

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December 2009: Parted Company with Karl Engemann

In December 2009, Marie Osmond ended her professional relationship with Karl Engemann, citing multiple breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations.

February 26, 2010: Death of Son Michael by Suicide

On February 26, 2010, Marie Osmond's adopted son, Michael, died by suicide. He had battled depression and addiction.

2013: Discussed Son's Death in "The Key Is Love"

In Marie Osmond's 2013 book, "The Key Is Love", she wrote that her son Michael had been "emotionally down" in the weeks prior to his suicide. She had also missed a phone call from him shortly before his death because she was onstage in Las Vegas.