Introduction:
Few artists in show business have experienced the kind of journey that Donny Osmond has — from a child star charming millions on black-and-white television to a seasoned performer whose career now spans over six decades. In this special feature, Donny takes a heartfelt look back at his very first interview with Entertainment Tonight, reflecting not only on how much has changed since that moment, but also on what has remarkably stayed the same: his gratitude, his love for performing, and his unshakable bond with fans who have grown up right alongside him.
Watching that early footage, Donny can’t help but smile — the wide-eyed teenager with the perfect smile, eager to take on the world, had no idea what an extraordinary adventure awaited him. From the early Osmond Brothers days on The Andy Williams Show to the screaming crowds of the 1970s, from his partnership with Marie on their beloved variety show to his triumphant reinvention on stage and television decades later, Donny’s career has been a master class in longevity and reinvention.
As he reacts to his younger self, there’s both humor and humility in his voice. He recalls the pressure of fame at such a young age, the expectations placed upon “America’s favorite boy next door,” and the constant drive to prove himself as more than just a teen idol. Yet, beneath it all, there’s a sincere appreciation for every chapter — the highs that lifted him, and the challenges that defined him.
Donny also opens up about his most memorable milestones: the electric energy of “Puppy Love,” the Broadway triumph of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, his show-stopping win on Dancing with the Stars, and the unforgettable Las Vegas residency with Marie that brought generations together night after night. Each story reflects the same spirit — a man who never stopped evolving, never stopped learning, and never stopped loving what he does.
But perhaps the most touching part of this reflection is Donny’s connection to his fans. He knows that many of them have followed him from the beginning, passing his music down to their children and grandchildren. In revisiting his first ET interview, he’s not just looking back at his own life — he’s acknowledging the shared memories of millions who found joy, comfort, and inspiration in his music and presence.
As the segment closes, Donny’s trademark optimism shines through. “If I could tell that young kid one thing,” he says with a grin, “it would be — enjoy every minute, because it goes by faster than you think.”
A lifetime in the spotlight hasn’t dimmed Donny Osmond’s light; it’s only made it warmer. His reaction to his first ET interview is more than nostalgia — it’s a celebration of resilience, gratitude, and the enduring power of genuine talent.