Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and rock icon, has died at the age of 76. His death comes just weeks after his final live performance, closing a storied and tumultuous career that spanned over five decades. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease for several years before passing peacefully, surrounded by his family.
His family released a heartfelt statement announcing his death, requesting privacy and thanking fans for their support. Signed by his wife Sharon and children Jack, Kelly, Aimee, and Louis, the message expressed the deep sorrow they feel at the loss of their beloved Ozzy.
Tributes poured in immediately after the news broke. Elton John called him a “trailblazer” and “true legend,” remembering Osbourne as both a friend and a humorist. His star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will now serve as a permanent site of remembrance for fans across the world.
Osbourne gave his final live performance on July 5, 2025, in Birmingham, England, during a Black Sabbath farewell concert. It marked over two decades since his Parkinson’s diagnosis and stood as a symbol of his resilience. Though his health had deteriorated in recent years, Ozzy remained determined to perform.
Born John Michael Osbourne in 1948 in Warwickshire, England, he co-founded Black Sabbath in 1968. The band helped pioneer heavy metal music, often embracing dark, satanic imagery that contributed to Ozzy’s infamous “Prince of Darkness” persona.
Throughout his career, he was known for controversial stunts, including biting the head off a bat and urinating on the Alamo. Despite his on-stage persona, he insisted he was simply playing a role, calling himself a family man behind the scenes.
His tenure with Black Sabbath produced eight studio albums, all contributing to the foundation of heavy metal. He was dismissed from the band in 1979 due to substance abuse, but went on to launch a wildly successful solo career.
As a solo artist, he released 13 studio albums, including “Blizzard of Ozz” and “No More Tears.” He also experienced tragedy, such as the death of guitarist Randy Rhoads and legal controversies over his lyrics.
Osbourne later rejoined Black Sabbath in 1997 and remained active with them until 2017. His final show raised funds for Parkinson’s research and children’s charities, highlighting his philanthropic side.
In the early 2000s, Ozzy became a TV icon through MTV’s “The Osbournes,” which portrayed his chaotic yet endearing family life. The show became a pop culture phenomenon.
Ozzy Osbourne sold over 100 million albums and was inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is survived by his wife, children from two marriages, and grandchildren.
