Marie Osmond's Emotional Journey After The Loss Of Her Son, Michael Blosil

Carlkissel December 02, 2024

There’s not a day that goes by that Marie Osmond doesn’t think about her late son, Michael Blosil. He died almost 10 years ago in 2010 when he took his own life after a long battle with depression. Michael was only 18 years old at the time. This tragic loss has had a profound impact on Marie, who has bravely shared her story in hopes of shedding light on the serious issue of bullying and mental health.

“I have never spoken about this before,” Marie began on the Tuesday, October 1, episode of The Talk. “So, my son who died, he was bullied.” Marie's openness about Michael's experiences highlights a critical conversation about the devastating effects of bullying and the importance of mental health awareness. She explained that Michael “was bullied very heavily up until the time” he committed suicide, and she still holds onto “the texts” that he sent her when he was alive, which serve as painful reminders of his struggles.

#HappyBirthday to my precious son Michael ❤️ I love you my Angel! 😇#MyFavoritePhoto He was born on his grandma’s birthday. Remembering #MotherOsmond today too! #Family #NationalDayOfPrayer
A post shared by Marie Osmond (@marieosmond) on May 4, 2017 at 7:26am PDT

Marie expressed her feelings about the bullying Michael faced, stating, “I mean they are horrendous, and I never took action against. But, I can tell you, honestly, I believe that that was a big component in him just feeling overwhelmed and that he didn’t fit in.” Despite knowing who the bullies were, she chose not to confront them, instead focusing on her hope that bullying will eventually come to an end. “Maybe it’s not a bad idea to have some kind of consequence because it’s getting out of hand,” she added.

Michael was one of eight children, and his siblings—Stephen, Jessica, Rachael, Brandon, Brianna, Matthew, and Abigail—also mourned his death. Following his passing, Marie released a heartfelt statement saying, “My family and I are devastated and in deep shock by the tragic loss of our dear Michael and ask that everyone respect our privacy during this difficult time.” This statement reflects the deep emotional toll that such a loss can have on a family.

On CBS Sunday Morning, the “Paper Roses” singer shared what life has been like for her nearly 10 years after Michael's suicide. “You know, I don’t think you’re ever through it,” she confessed. “I think God gives you respites, and then all of a sudden it’ll hit you like the day it did. The ripple effect is so huge, what you leave behind.” We stand with Marie in her belief that bullying has no place in our society.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.