Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and one of the founding fathers of heavy metal, has died at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news early Tuesday morning, sharing that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, just weeks after his emotional farewell performance.
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What Happened?
In a heartfelt family statement, the Osbournes wrote:
“It is with more sadness than words can express that we announce the passing of our beloved Ozzy Osbourne. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask that everyone please respect our privacy during this time.”
Ozzy had been publicly battling Parkinson’s disease since 2020, and his health had been in steady decline over recent months.
His death marks not only the end of an era, but also a monumental loss for the world of rock music.
Who Was Ozzy Osbourne?
Ozzy Osbourne was known for his distinctive voice, rebellious persona, and explosive stage presence. His black-clad image and outrageous behavior made him a symbol of rock excess. One of his most infamous acts—biting the head off a bat on stage in 1981—became a defining (and controversial) moment in rock history.
Born in 1948 in Birmingham, England, Osbourne rose to fame in the late 1960s as the frontman of Black Sabbath, a band credited with laying the foundation for heavy metal.
A Career That Shaped Generations
Ozzy’s music career began in 1969 with Black Sabbath. Their self-titled debut and their second album, Paranoid, featuring classics like “Iron Man” and “War Pigs,” revolutionized rock music and are widely regarded as some of the most important metal records ever made.
After being fired from Black Sabbath in 1979 due to substance abuse and internal conflict, Osbourne launched a wildly successful solo career. His debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz (1980), included hits like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.” He followed it with Diary of a Madman, solidifying his role as a solo rock powerhouse.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
Osbourne was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice:
- In 2006 with Black Sabbath
- In 2024 as a solo artist
His influence extended far beyond music. Ozzy became a pop culture icon, known for outrageous antics like urinating on the Alamo or snorting ants, but he also surprised the world with his role as a devoted father in the hit MTV reality show The Osbournes.
Final Performance and Farewell
Ozzy’s final public performance in July 2025 was a powerful farewell. Held in the UK, it featured a historic Black Sabbath reunion in front of 42,000 fans. The event included performances by Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Slayer, and was hosted by actor and fan Jason Momoa.
Global Tributes
As news of Osbourne’s death broke, tributes poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and celebrities around the globe.
Phil Anselmo, frontman of Pantera, remarked:
“Ozzy changed everything. Without Black Sabbath, I wouldn’t have a mic in my hand.”
Ozzy’s legacy as a trailblazer, visionary, and genre-defining artist will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans.
Survived by Family
Ozzy Osbourne is survived by his wife Sharon Osbourne, their children Aimee, Kelly, and Jack, and several grandchildren. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Conclusion
Ozzy’s roar may have faded, but his voice, music, and cultural impact will echo for generations. His passing leaves a void in the heart of rock music, but his legend will live on.
This story will be updated as more details become available.