Marie Osmond has made it clear that despite her remarkable success in show business, she doesn’t believe in passing on her wealth to her children. Instead of leaving them an inheritance, she has opted for a different plan for her estate—one that she believes will ultimately benefit them.
A Different Perspective on Inheritance
In discussions about money and legacy, opinions can be polarizing—especially among famous families. While some see an inheritance as a way to secure a child’s future, others argue that handing over a fortune can lead to unintended problems. Marie’s stance defies traditional expectations. She has spoken candidly about her choice, emphasizing that her decision isn’t solely about finances; it’s also a deeply personal reflection of her own experiences and values regarding success.
Hard Work and Personal Success
Over nearly sixty years in the entertainment industry, Marie has built a diverse and enduring career. Whether performing with her renowned siblings or thriving as a solo artist in music, television, and business, her success is rooted in persistence and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Raised in a family that valued discipline and determination, she always sought out opportunities to learn and grow—an attitude she famously summarized by saying, “I’m a finisher.” This same work ethic has shaped her views on money and self-reliance.
Lessons from the Osmond Family
Marie grew up in an environment where financial discipline was paramount. Her father, George Osmond, managed the family’s earnings and taught them that money should be earned, not given freely. Despite the family’s financial success, mismanagement led to significant losses—up to $80 million, according to her brother Jimmy. This experience reinforced the importance of financial independence and careful money management, lessons that have influenced both Marie’s approach to her estate and the way she raises her children.
Rethinking Wealth for Her Children
Marie has been forthright about her belief that a large inheritance can stifle a child’s drive to work. In a notable 2020 interview on “The Talk,” she announced, “I’m not leaving any money to my children. Congratulations, kids.” Both she and her husband, Stephen Craig, feel that the promise of easy money can discourage hard work and personal achievement. Marie has reiterated that knowing an inheritance is coming might prevent children from learning the value of earning their own success and self-respect. While this view has sparked debate, she is in good company—figures like Warren Buffett, Sting, and Mick Jagger share similar sentiments.
What Will Happen to Her Fortune?
Rather than bequeathing her wealth to her children, Marie plans to donate her fortune to charity. “Let them be proud of what they make, and I’m going to give mine to my charity,” she has said. Although she hasn’t revealed specific organizations, her long history of philanthropy—including co-founding the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and helping to raise over $8 billion for children’s healthcare—speaks to her commitment to making a difference. At the same time, Marie and her husband plan to enjoy the fruits of their labor, ticking off bucket-list experiences together. Importantly, she reassures everyone that her decision doesn’t mean she won’t lend a helping hand when her children truly need it.
Fostering Independence
Marie supports her children in ways that promote self-reliance. She is willing to assist with major purchases—like pitching in for a car—but insists that they also contribute financially. “You don’t love something if you don’t earn it,” she explains, stressing that support should encourage hard work rather than create dependency. Marie is proud that her children have each carved out their own successful paths, many even dedicating their careers to helping others. To her, true financial security means understanding money’s value, not merely inheriting it.
A Glimpse at Her Family
Marie’s family is as diverse as it is accomplished. Her eldest son, Stephen James Craig Jr., though keeping a low profile, played a key role in reuniting her family. Jessica Marie Blosil, whom she adopted, is a police officer and crisis counselor in Provo, Utah, and celebrated a joyful marriage in 2019. Rachael Krueger, a creative professional in costume design and hairstyling, has built her own family with two children. Brandon Warren Blosil remains a private figure, having stepped away from the limelight after a stint in a band. Brianna Patricia Blosil has made her mark in the beauty industry and, along with her husband David Schwep, is raising two daughters. Matthew Richard Blosil, who experienced significant personal growth after a mission trip, and Abigail Michelle Blosil, who shows early promise in music, round out her living children. Tragically, her eighth child, Michael Brian Blosil, died by suicide in 2010, a loss that Marie has openly grieved.
Marie has always maintained that family is defined by love, not by blood or the amount of money passed down. Her children have thrived on their own merits, and as she moves forward, she now focuses on enjoying life with her husband and grandchildren.
Cherishing Grandmotherhood
Unlike her approach with her children, Marie fully embraces her role as a grandmother. Free from the pressures of daily parenting, she delights in spoiling her eight grandchildren—organizing fun outings like manicures, golfing, coloring sessions, and shared kitchen adventures. Through photos and stories, she shares how much joy these moments bring her, affirming that the bond with her grandchildren is one of the most rewarding aspects of her life. Whether it’s helping her daughter-in-law care for a newborn or traveling to visit her grandkids, Marie finds deep fulfillment in these family connections. She reflects that, after a lifetime of hard work, nothing compares to the joy and challenge of being a grandma.
In summary, Marie Osmond’s decision not to leave an inheritance is driven by her belief in hard work, self-reliance, and the idea that true success is earned. Her legacy, therefore, will be measured not by the wealth she passes on but by the values and independence she has instilled in her family, as well as the charitable causes that will benefit from her fortune.