Ozzy Osbourne, considered a pioneer of heavy metal, who began his musical journey more than 55 years ago as the lead singer of the band Black Sabbath, known for their dark-themed rock, has passed away on Tuesday.
Born John Michael Osbourne in 1948 in working-class Birmingham, England, the son of two factory workers, Osbourne was 76. He passed away in his home country after having lived in Los Angeles since the early 2000s. The cause of death was not disclosed, although he mentioned in 2020 that he had been battling Parkinson’s disease.
Known humorously as the “Prince of Darkness,” Osbourne took part in a star-studded farewell concert, which concluded with a last performance alongside Black Sabbath on July 5 at a soccer stadium in the band’s home city. Images from the occasion depict Osbourne singing from a black throne.
The guitarist and co-founder of Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi, voiced his sadness regarding the passing of his long-time friend and bandmate.
I just can’t believe it,” Iommi posted on Instagram. “My dear, dear friend Ozzy has passed away just weeks after our performance at Villa Park. It’s incredibly heartbreaking news that I truly don’t have the words for.
He added, “My thoughts are with (Osbourne’s wife) Sharon and the entire Osbourne family. Rest in peace, Oz. Tony.” He concluded his message by saying, “There will never be another like him.”
In 1980, following his departure from Black Sabbath, Osbourne began his solo journey with the album “Blizzard of Ozz,” which included the legendary song “Crazy Train.” This album went on to sell more than 55 million copies globally and established Osbourne as a major figure in heavy metal. He has since released over a dozen albums under his own name.
A message from the Osbourne family states: “We are deeply saddened, beyond what words can express, as we must inform you that our cherished Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and enveloped in love. We request that everyone respect our family’s privacy during this period.”
In addition to his music and a vibrant stage performance that occasionally embraced absurdity, Osbourne was recognized for his unforgettable behavior, including the claimed act of biting the head off a dead bat, as well as struggles with drug use that reportedly resulted in a 1989 conflict with Sharon, his wife of four decades.
His following expanded in 2002 after he gained fame as a reality TV star on the MTV series “The Osbournes,” which also included Sharon and their kids, Jack and Kelly. The show, shot at the family’s Beverly Hills home, became a successful ratings performer and won the second-ever Emmy for outstanding reality program in 2002.
Messages of condolence came from throughout the pop music industry, including Elton John and Rolling Stones member Ronnie Wood, as well as rapper and reality TV personality Flavor Flav.
The lead singer of Megadeth, Dave Mustaine, shared an image of himself with Osbourne on X, stating, “I’m going to miss you. Not as much as your amazing partner, Mrs. Osbourne. Thank you for everything you’ve done for all of us. See you on the other side!”
Also on X, Jon Bon Jovi posted, “Lots of love to Sharon and the wonderful Osbourne family. Very sorry for your loss. Rest in peace, Ozzy.”
Included the heavy metal group Pantera, with whom Osbourne often performed, “Thank you for everything you did for metal and Pantera. We wouldn’t be here without you. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Amy, and Louis, we are truly sorry for your loss.”
The singer of “Rocket Man” also expressed his tribute, posting on Instagram that Osbourne “was a dear friend and a major pioneer who earned his spot among the greats of rock — a true legend.” John mentioned that he was “one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. I will miss him very much.”
Wood expressed that he was “extremely sad” to learn about Osbourne’s passing. “What a wonderful final concert he had,” Wood remarked, referencing the UK farewell event.
The official Instagram page for Metallica honored the memory, sharing an image of Osbourne accompanied by a broken heart emoji in the caption, while the Black Sabbath account stated, “Ozzy Forever.”
In a post on X, Flavor Flav expressed his sadness over Osbourne’s passing. “We have a long history, and it was a true privilege to see him inducted into the (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) last year. Sending my love and prayers to Sharon, his children, and the entire family.”
Osbourne and Black Sabbath were honored with a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. He received another induction later, this time as an individual performer, in 2024. The UK Music Hall of Fame recognized him both as part of Sabbath and as a solo act in 2005.
The vocalist is also recognized for iconic tracks like “Paranoid,” “Iron Man,” and “Crazy Train,” which is a popular choice for energizing audiences at sports events.
Besides his wife Sharon, whom he wed in 1982, and their children Kelly, Jack, and Aimee — who opted out of appearing on “The Osbournes” — remaining family members consist of three children from Osbourne’s initial marriage, along with many grandchildren.
