The Osmonds singer Wayne Osmond dies aged 73

Wayne Osmond has died at the age of 73.

The singer, known for his efforts in The Osmonds alongside his brothers Alan, Merrill, Jay, Jimmy and Donny Osmond, died on Wednesday night.

His loved ones confirmed the sad news in a statement to multiple US news outlets, which read: ‘Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children.

‘His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world.

‘He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert.

‘We love him and will miss him dearly.’

Wayne’s cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Following the news, his siblings have shared heartwarming tributes to their late brother on social media.

Taking to Facebook, Jay wrote: ‘A true legend has left the Earth. My heart is deeply saddened for the loss of my brother Wayne. It is said that where there is great love there is great grief as we part during our earthly journey.

‘Throughout my life I have always felt most connected to Wayne out of all of my siblings. He was my roommate and my confidant over the decades.

‘As I sat visiting with him last week at his home he talked about how sad he was that he couldn’t get up in his plane anymore and how much flying brought him peace.

‘What gives me joy is to know that my brother “Wings” has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now.

‘The reunion he must’ve had with Father and Mother I’m sure was spectacular!’

The Utah native stepped into the spotlight at a young age, fronting barbershop quartet The Osmond Brothers with his talented siblings, Alan, Merrill and Jay in 1958.

They were joined by younger brothers Jimmy and Donny, and rebranded, tweaking their name to the Osmonds.

The group shot to fame and landed a regular gig on the Andy Willaims Show across the 1960s, while dropping hits including Mister Sandman, Taking A Chance on Love and Movin’ Along.

One of their most iconic songs, One Bad Apple, soared to the top of the charts in the 70s, and they followed this up with Yo-Yo, Down By The Lazy River and Love Me For A Reason.

Metro.co.uk has contacted reps for the Osmond family for a comment.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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