Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary rock icon and former frontman of Black Sabbath, has passed away at the age of 76 after a prolonged battle with health issues, including Parkinson’s disease. His family shared the heartbreaking news on July 22, 2025, stating, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
Osbourne’s death comes just weeks after he made a triumphant return to the stage for what would be his final performance with Black Sabbath at the Back to the Beginning festival in Birmingham, England, on July 5. The event drew over 45,000 fans, celebrating the band’s remarkable legacy. Following the show, his daughter Kelly Osbourne had dismissed rumors regarding her father’s declining health, emphasizing that he was doing well.
Born in Birmingham, England, in 1948, Osbourne began his musical journey in 1967 when he joined a band called Rare Breed, alongside bassist Geezer Butler. After a brief stint, the group rebranded as Black Sabbath, adding guitarist Tony Iommi and drummer Bill Ward. This lineup would go on to create some of rock music’s most iconic albums. Osbourne’s unique voice and stage presence helped establish Black Sabbath as pioneers of heavy metal.
Throughout his illustrious career, Osbourne sold over 100 million records worldwide, both as a solo artist and with Black Sabbath. In 1978, he briefly left the band to pursue a solo career, releasing successful albums like “Blizzard of Ozz” and “Diary of a Madman.” However, he later rejoined Black Sabbath, contributing to their final studio album, “13,” and participating in their farewell tour, which concluded in 2017.
Osbourne’s personal life was marked by struggles with substance abuse, leading to his firing from Black Sabbath in 1979. Despite these challenges, he made a remarkable comeback, showcasing his resilience and passion for music. His marriage to Sharon Osbourne in 1982 brought further public attention, especially when the couple starred in the reality TV series “The Osbournes,” which aired from 2002 to 2005. The show provided fans with an intimate look at their family life, including their children Kelly and Jack, as well as their daughter Aimee.
In recent years, Osbourne faced significant health challenges, including his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in January 2020. His wife, Sharon, revealed on “The Talk UK” in June 2022 that he was set to undergo surgery that would greatly impact his future. “It’s really going to determine the rest of his life,” she stated, highlighting the gravity of his condition.
Despite his health struggles, Osbourne remained connected with his fans, often sharing updates on social media. In a post following his surgery, he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received, stating, “I am now home from the hospital recuperating comfortably. I am definitely feeling the love and support from all my fans and send everyone a big thank you for their thoughts, prayers, and well wishes during my recovery.”
In a poignant interview with The Guardian just before his passing, Osbourne reflected on his ongoing health issues, stating, “You wake up the next morning and find that something else has gone wrong. You begin to think this is never going to end.” He credited his wife for organizing the final Black Sabbath show, saying it gave him a reason to keep pushing forward.
Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy as a rock legend will undoubtedly endure. His contributions to music, his larger-than-life persona, and his candidness about his struggles have inspired countless fans and artists alike. As the world mourns the loss of this iconic figure, his impact on rock music and popular culture remains immeasurable.
In the wake of his passing, tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and celebrities have flooded social media, celebrating Osbourne’s extraordinary life and career. His music will continue to resonate, reminding us all of the power of rock and roll and the indomitable spirit of a true legend.