Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
At first, Jimmy Osmond’s admission sounds almost unbelievable—how could losing every dollar he had possibly be “the best thing that ever happened” to him? The idea seems shocking, even contradictory. Yet, as he shares his story, the picture quickly changes. What initially looked like a devastating downfall became a powerful turning point—one that reshaped his perspective on life, taught him what truly matters, and deepened his gratitude for the people closest to him.
In a recent interview, Osmond opened up with remarkable honesty about this extraordinary journey. His account includes not only the collapse of his finances, but also the haunting memory of a chilling kidnap threat, an unlikely but enduring friendship with Michael Jackson, and his startlingly blunt opinion on why he has “no respect” for Justin Bieber.
Instead of drowning in despair after his fortune vanished, Osmond now describes that moment as a much-needed reality check. The hardship humbled him, brought him closer to his family, and forced him to stay rooted in values that fame often overshadows. It was also during that turbulent period that he revisited a terrifying chapter of his past: the day he learned he had become the target of a kidnapping plot. The fear for his life—and for the safety of his loved ones—was a stark reminder of how unpredictable and dangerous stardom can be.
Yet his life has also been marked by profound and inspiring moments. None was more memorable than his deep friendship with Michael Jackson. Osmond recalls Jackson as kind, generous, and exceptionally gifted—qualities he believes are rare in today’s entertainment world. In stark contrast, he does not hesitate when speaking about Justin Bieber, whom he sees as embodying the arrogance and lack of gratitude that plague many young stars.
Perhaps that is why Jimmy Osmond insists that losing everything was, in fact, a blessing. In his eyes, true success is not measured by wealth or celebrity status, but by integrity, humility, and the ability to hold on to one’s heart.