Ozzy Osbourne Dead at 76: A Rock Legend Remembered

JULY 23,2025

Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and iconic figure in both rock and reality TV, has died at the age of 76, his family confirmed Tuesday.

“It is with more sadness than words can convey that we report the passing of our beloved Ozzy Osbourne,” the family said in a statement. “He was with his family and surrounded by love.”

While the cause of death has not been disclosed, the rock pioneer’s final public appearance was just weeks ago during a highly emotional “Back to the Beginning” reunion concert in Birmingham—his hometown and the birthplace of Black Sabbath.

Ozzy Osbourne A Rebel Turned Rock Legend

Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, Ozzy’s early life was far from glamorous. He dropped out of school at 15 and drifted between odd jobs and petty crime, even serving time for burglary.

But everything changed when he heard The Beatles’ “She Loves You.” That one song sparked his dream of becoming a musician—and the rest is history.

In 1968, Osbourne joined bassist Geezer Butler, drummer Bill Ward, and guitarist Tony Iommi to form what would become Black Sabbath. Their debut album was famously recorded in just 12 hours, capturing a raw sound that defined an entire genre.

Ozzy Osbourne ‘The Prince of Darkness’ Redefined Shock Rock

Osbourne earned his infamous moniker for a reason—from biting the head off a bat during a 1982 concert to hurling raw meat into the crowd, his antics became legend.

Still, beyond the shock value was a man battling his own demons—addiction, family turbulence, and estrangement from his first children. His relationship with Sharon Arden, who later became his manager and wife, marked a turning point. Together, they built a media empire, including the wildly popular MTV reality show “The Osbournes” which won an Emmy in 2002.

🎸 Solo Success, Sobriety Battles & Resilience

Despite being fired from Black Sabbath in 1979 due to substance abuse, Ozzy launched a successful solo career, releasing 11 albums and scoring multiple Grammy wins—including two in 2023.

Yet, his life was far from smooth. Ozzy openly acknowledged the toll of addiction and even described his past as “a thousand near-death experiences.” His relationship with Sharon faced dark moments too, including violence stemming from his drug-fueled outbursts.

🏆 A Hall of Famer Until the End

In 2006, Ozzy and Black Sabbath were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. And in 2022, despite health setbacks—including Parkinson’s disease and spinal surgeries—he performed at the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony in Birmingham, a final tribute to his hometown and his fans.

In 2023, Osbourne announced his retirement from touring, admitting he was no longer physically able. Still, he expressed his desire to perform just one last show—not for himself, but as a thank-you to fans.

“If I drop dead after that show, I’ll die a happy man.”

💔 A Final Farewell from His Bandmates

Former bandmates paid tribute with raw emotion.

“Goodbye dear friend… we had some great fun,” wrote Geezer Butler.
“There won’t ever be another like him,” added Tony Iommi.
“You’re forever in my heart,” said drummer Bill Ward.

🕊️ Legacy Beyond the Music

Ozzy leaves behind his wife Sharon, three children from his first marriage, and three with Sharon: Jack, Kelly, and Aimee. He also leaves behind a seismic legacy—one that changed music, pop culture, and the meaning of rebellion forever. NOWTREND

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