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Marie Osmond with her husband and grandkids | Source: Instagram/marieosmond
Marie Osmond with her husband and grandkids | Source: Instagram/marieosmond

Marie Osmond Won't Leave Her 7 Kids an Inheritance – Here's Why

Milly Wanjiku Ndirangu
Mar 03, 2025
02:56 P.M.

Marie Osmond has built a successful career in entertainment, but she doesn't believe wealth should be handed down. The singer has made it clear that her children won't inherit her fortune — a decision she says is meant to help, not hurt them. Instead of leaving them money, she has a different plan for her estate.

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Discussions about wealth and inheritance often spark strong opinions, especially among high-profile families. Some believe passing down a fortune is a way to secure their children's future, while others argue it can create more problems than benefits. Marie Osmond has made her position clear, and it's not what most people expect.

Marie Osmond in Los Angeles in 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond in Los Angeles in 2019 | Source: Getty Images

She has spoken openly about her approach, explaining why she won't be following the traditional path when it comes to her estate. While some of her peers have made similar decisions, her reasoning goes beyond finances. Marie's choice is deeply personal. It is shaped by her life experiences and beliefs about success.

Marie Osmond pictured at the National Television Awards in London, England in 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond pictured at the National Television Awards in London, England in 2013 | Source: Getty Images

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Marie's Views on Success and Hard Work

Marie's career spans nearly six decades, making her one of the most recognizable figures in the entertainment industry. From her early days performing with her famous siblings to her solo success in music, television, and business, she has built a legacy through persistence and adaptability.

Marie Osmond performs in Atlantic City, New Jersey on December 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond performs in Atlantic City, New Jersey on December 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

She has never limited herself to one role, taking on projects as a singer, actress, talk show host, author, and entrepreneur. Her approach to success has always been rooted in hard work. Marie was raised in a family where discipline and determination were central values.

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She has often spoken about how she enjoys taking on challenges, learning new skills, and pushing herself to achieve her goals. "I've done so many things from designing dolls and much more. I love trying [and] I wanna try everything. I'm a finisher," she once said.

This mindset is something she has carried throughout her career and personal life. Marie's perspective on money isn't just personal; it has also been shaped by her family's financial history.

Marie Osmond debuts her Marie Lifestyle Collection line of fashion accessories and home decor in Henderson, Nevada on November 21, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond debuts her Marie Lifestyle Collection line of fashion accessories and home decor in Henderson, Nevada on November 21, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

The Osmond Family's Approach to Money

Marie grew up in a household where financial discipline was a priority. Her father, George Osmond, managed the family's earnings and instilled in his children the importance of hard work and responsibility. The Osmond children were not given allowances, nor raised to rely on their wealth.

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Instead, they were taught that money had to be earned. Despite the family's financial success, they faced major setbacks. Marie's brother, Jimmy Osmond, once revealed that the family lost around $80 million due to poor financial management and unwise investments.

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"We amassed a lot of money but were good at entertaining and not business," he explained. "We ended up hiring people to look after the money and then we wondered what happened." The experience was a harsh lesson for the Osmond siblings, forcing them to start over and rebuild their financial stability.

The Osmonds Brothers: Wayne, Jay, Donny, Merrill, and Alan Osmond in London on October 29 1972 | Source: Getty Images

The Osmonds Brothers: Wayne, Jay, Donny, Merrill, and Alan Osmond in London on October 29 1972 | Source: Getty Images

Marie has often pointed to this as a defining moment in her understanding of money. Rather than seeing wealth as something to be relied upon, she learned the importance of financial independence and careful money management. These lessons would later influence how she chose to approach her estate planning.

Donny and Marie Osmond perform on ABC's "Good Morning America" in New York City on August 15, 2008 | Source: Getty Images

Donny and Marie Osmond perform on ABC's "Good Morning America" in New York City on August 15, 2008 | Source: Getty Images

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She has not only embraced this mindset for herself but has also applied it to the way she raises her children. She believes that financial struggles can teach valuable life skills that cannot be learned if money is simply handed down. This philosophy ultimately led her to decide her fortune, sparking widespread debate.

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Why Marie Chose a Different Path for Her Children

Marie has been open about her belief that wealth should not be handed down. In 2020, she made headlines when she revealed her plan for her children. "I'm not leaving any money to my children. Congratulations, kids," she said during a discussion on "The Talk."

She explained that she and her husband, Stephen Craig, believe that large inheritances can do more harm than good. "You take away the one most important gift you can give your children, and that's the ability to work," she emphasized.

Marie Osmond sings the American national anthem before a preseason game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Las Vegas Raiders on August 14, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond sings the American national anthem before a preseason game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Las Vegas Raiders on August 14, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

According to Marie, knowing that money will be given to them can make children complacent and strip them of the motivation to build their success. Marie has since reiterated this view, emphasizing that she wants her children to experience the satisfaction of earning their financial stability.

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Marie Osmond during her "Music is Medicine" album signing on April 9, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond during her "Music is Medicine" album signing on April 9, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada | Source: Getty Images

"I've seen it throughout my life — when you tell a child that you're leaving them all this money, it un-inspires them.They don't learn that you cannot buy your child self-esteem — they have to earn that," she said in 2023.

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"They don't learn the joy of hard work, of picking themselves up when things don't work. I believe in general that you rob children of the experience of figuring out who they are," she added. While her stance has sparked debate, Marie is not alone in her thinking.

Other high-profile figures, including Warren Buffett, Sting, and Mick Jagger, have stated they do not plan to leave their children vast fortunes. However, Marie's decision is not just about wealth — it's about the values she wants to pass down. But if her money isn't going to her children, where will it go?

Marie Osmond at The Broadway.com Studios on December 8, 2010, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond at The Broadway.com Studios on December 8, 2010, in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Her Plans for Her Fortune

Marie has clarified that while her children will not inherit her wealth, her fortune will not go to waste. Instead, she decided to donate it to charity, believing it would have a greater impact on helping others in need. "Let them be proud of what they make, and I'm going to give mine to my charity," she asserted.

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She has not specified which organizations will receive her wealth, but throughout her career, she has been involved in numerous charitable efforts. Marie has long supported Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, a nonprofit that raises funds for children's healthcare.

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Marie Osmond at  The Storybook Suite to Benefit Children's Miracle Network Hospitals in Hollywood, California, on May 14, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond at The Storybook Suite to Benefit Children's Miracle Network Hospitals in Hollywood, California, on May 14, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

She co-founded the organization in 1983 and has helped raise over $8 billion to support children’s hospitals across North America. Beyond charity, Marie has also spoken about wanting to enjoy the money she has earned.

Marie Osmond and daughter at the opening night benefit for the Ringling Bros Circus for Make a Wish Foundation on July 2, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond and daughter at the opening night benefit for the Ringling Bros Circus for Make a Wish Foundation on July 2, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

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After decades of hard work, she and her husband, Stephen, plan to spend their remaining years having fun together. "Besides, I have a lot of places to go and a lot of bucket lists still to do," she stated. "I've worked hard all my life, and I want to enjoy those years I have with my husband, you know?"

While Marie stands firm in her decision, the mother of eight has reassured that this does not mean she refuses to help her children when they need it.

Marie Osmond with her brother Donny and her children during the Ringling Bros. Circus opening night benefit for Make-a-Wish Foundation on July 2, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond with her brother Donny and her children during the Ringling Bros. Circus opening night benefit for Make-a-Wish Foundation on July 2, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

How She Supports Her Children Without an Inheritance

Over the years, she has supported her kids and helped them when necessary but in a way that encourages independence rather than reliance on wealth. "I don't not help my children. I mean, [if] they need help [buying] a car or something, [I will pitch in,]" she explained. However, she insists that they contribute as well.

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Marie Osmond and her daughters at the gala to benefit Make A Wish Foundation on July 22, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond and her daughters at the gala to benefit Make A Wish Foundation on July 22, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Regarding major purchases, she has required them to pay for a part themselves. "You don't love something if you don't earn it," she said, emphasizing that financial assistance should not replace hard work.

Marie also takes pride in the fact that all of her children are self-sufficient. "My children know that I'm proud of them for being able to make their own living," she said. "They're all really wonderful kids who work hard." She shared that some of them have dedicated their careers to helping others.

Marie Osmond, her brother Donny and her sons attend the 50th Annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, California, on September 13, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond, her brother Donny and her sons attend the 50th Annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, California, on September 13, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

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One rehabilitates people struggling with drug addiction, while another works with elderly individuals facing mental health challenges. For Marie, financial security is about more than just having money — it is about understanding its value.

This philosophy has shaped how she raised her children, ensuring they developed strong work ethics. As a result, her children have pursued various careers, each forging their path without depending on an inheritance.

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A Look at Marie's Seven Living Children

Her eldest son, Stephen James Craig Jr., was born during her first marriage to Stephen Craig. Unlike his famous mother, he keeps a low profile and stays out of the entertainment industry. However, he played a significant role in reconnecting his parents, which led to their remarriage in 2011.

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Jessica Marie Blosil, whom Marie adopted as a baby, pursued a career in law enforcement. She became a police officer in Provo, Utah, and has also worked as a crisis counselor, assisting people recovering from addiction.

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In 2019, she married her partner, Sara, and Marie expressed her happiness for her daughter's fulfilling career and personal life. Rachael Krueger followed a creative path, working as a costume designer and hairstylist.

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She married Gabriel Krueger in 2012, and the couple has two children, Rocket Jade and Wolf. Marie has shared her admiration for Rachael's dedication to her career and family, often celebrating her accomplishments on social media.

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Brandon Warren Blosil is one of Marie's more private children, choosing to stay away from public attention. He previously played bass in the metalcore band Navarre, but little is known about his personal life as he keeps a low profile.

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Brianna Patricia Blosil has succeeded in the beauty industry as a professional makeup artist. She has worked on "The Talk" and was part of Marie's Las Vegas residency with Donny Osmond. In 2018, she married David Schwep, and they now have two daughters, Maude and Mabel.

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Matthew Richard Blosil was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and spent two years on a mission trip before attending college. Marie has spoken about how much he matured during this time and how proud she was to see him return home as a focused young man.

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Her youngest child, Abigail Michelle Blosil, has shown an interest in music. Marie has shared moments of pride in Abigail's talents, including a school performance where she was deeply moved by her daughter's singing.

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Marie's eighth child, Michael Brian Blosil, died by suicide in 2010 at 19 after struggling with depression and substance abuse. She has spoken openly about her grief, calling him "a joy and a light" in her life.

Marie Osmond with sons Stephen, Michael, and Brandon at the "Toy Story 2" premiere on November 13, 1999  | Source: Getty Images

Marie Osmond with sons Stephen, Michael, and Brandon at the "Toy Story 2" premiere on November 13, 1999 | Source: Getty Images

Although Marie's children have taken different paths, she has never distinguished them. "Some of my kids are adopted, and I can't remember which ones," she once said, emphasizing that love, not biology, defines a family.

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While her decision about her inheritance may seem unusual to some, her children have built their own lives without relying on her wealth. As she moves forward, Marie is shifting her focus toward enjoying the years ahead with her husband and grandchildren.

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She enjoys a different approach with her grandchildren. Unlike with her children, she loves spoiling them, saying, "I just feel like this is the best time of our lives as women. Now I'm a grandma, and I get to just spoil my grandkids."

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She embraces this role with enthusiasm, appreciating the freedom of enjoying her family without parenting responsibilities. When the proud grandmother is not working, she spends time with her eight grandchildren.

She said they love to go on "special outings" like getting manicures, playing golf, and coloring, which is one of her granddaughter's favorite activities, or they whip up something in the kitchen and feast together.

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Marie posted several pictures of her family activities, showing fans what she and her brood got up to. The photos included her daughter-in-law's baby shower and watching her grandson play baseball. The grandmother said she always ensures the grandchildren feel included in whatever they do.

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Marie enjoys spending time with her grandkids because she has experienced things she never got to have as a child. Therefore, sharing some of her firsts with her children's offspring is extra special. The country singer expressed that her bond with her grandchildren is part of her success.

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To her, it means that she has done an excellent job of loving her children, and Osmond would not trade that for anything. She said, "I have worked my entire life, and I can honestly say there is NO job more challenging or fulfilling than… being a grandma!"

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Her eldest son Stephen is the father of Stephen, Christian, Maxwell, and Olive. The "Dancing with the Stars" alum also said she was happy to help her daughter-in-law when Olive was still a newborn. She visited her son and cared for the baby while the couple celebrated their anniversary.

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Lending a helping hand when things get overwhelming for her children is an absolute bliss for Marie. She even shared that one time when she visited her daughter, she overheard them say, "Wow, isn't it nice grandma's here?" This warmed her heart.

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One of the singer's favorite things is when she has a week free to travel and visit her grandchildren. She shared that she went to California to see Stephen and his kids for a couple of days.

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From there, she flew to Las Vegas and spent time with Maude and Mable. Marie said spending time with all her grandchildren brings her the most joy, and after working hard on her body and lifestyle, she is even more grateful that she gets to be active with the kids.

As Marie moves forward, her focus remains on what she values most — cherishing the time she has, making the most of her success, and watching her children and grandchildren thrive.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please reach out immediately to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. Other international suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org.

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