The music world mourns the loss of John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and a pioneering solo artist, who passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. Surrounded by his family and loved ones, Ozzy left an indelible mark on heavy metal and pop culture. Known as the “Prince of Darkness,” his career spanned over five decades, filled with groundbreaking music, unforgettable performances, and a larger-than-life personality that captivated millions.
Early Life and Rise with Black Sabbath
Born on December 3, 1948, in Aston, Birmingham, England, Ozzy grew up in a working-class family. Inspired by The Beatles’ 1963 hit “She Loves You,” he decided at age 14 to pursue a career in music. In 1968, he teamed up with guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward to form Black Sabbath, a band that would redefine rock music. Their self-titled debut album in 1969, often called the “Big Bang of heavy metal,” introduced a dark, heavy sound that contrasted with the era’s hippie culture. Hits like Paranoid, Iron Man, and War Pigs became anthems, cementing Black Sabbath’s place in music history.
Despite their success, Ozzy’s struggles with substance abuse led to his departure from the band in 1979. His exit marked a turning point, but it was far from the end of his musical journey.
A Solo Career That Shaped Heavy Metal
With the support of his future wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy launched a solo career that rivaled his Black Sabbath achievements. His 1980 debut album, Blizzard of Ozz, featuring the iconic Crazy Train, became a multi-platinum success. Collaborating with talented musicians like guitarist Randy Rhoads, Ozzy released a string of successful albums, including Diary of a Madman (1981) and No More Tears (1991). His solo work earned him five Grammy Awards and a lasting influence on the heavy metal genre.
Ozzy’s live performances were legendary, often blending theatricality with controversy. From biting the head off a bat (which he thought was a prop) during a 1982 show in Des Moines to his provocative stage antics, he earned a reputation as a shock-rock icon. Yet, beneath the wild persona, Ozzy was a dedicated performer who connected deeply with his fans.
The Osbournes: A Reality TV Revolution
In 2002, Ozzy became an unlikely reality TV star with The Osbournes, a show that followed his family life with Sharon and their children, Kelly and Jack. The MTV series offered a humorous and heartfelt look at Ozzy as a loving, if eccentric, family man. Running for four seasons, it introduced him to a new generation and showcased his charm and resilience despite personal struggles. The show’s success helped redefine reality television and made the Osbourne family household names.
Battling Health Challenges with Determination
Ozzy faced significant health challenges in his later years, including a 2003 Parkinson’s disease diagnosis and complications from a 2019 fall that required multiple surgeries. Despite these setbacks, he remained determined to perform. In 2022, he made a surprise appearance at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and on July 5, 2025, he reunited with Black Sabbath for a final farewell concert at Villa Park, dubbed “Back to the Beginning.” Performing from a bat-themed throne due to mobility issues, Ozzy delivered a powerful set, thanking fans “from the bottom of my heart.” The event, attended by 45,000 fans and streamed to millions, featured tributes from bands like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.
A Lasting Legacy
Ozzy Osbourne’s influence extends far beyond music. As a founding father of heavy metal, he inspired countless bands and artists. His Ozzfest music festival, launched in the 1990s, became a platform for emerging metal acts, shaping the genre’s future. His authenticity, humor, and resilience endeared him to fans worldwide, while his advocacy for animal welfare, particularly against cat declawing, showed his compassionate side.
Tributes have poured in from peers and fans alike. Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood called the Birmingham farewell concert a “lovely goodbye,” while Metallica shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. PETA’s Lisa Lange praised Ozzy’s commitment to animal advocacy, noting his impact would be missed by animal lovers globally.
Personal Life and Family
Ozzy leaves behind his wife, Sharon, whom he married in 1982, and their children, Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. He also had two children, Jessica and Louis, from his first marriage to Thelma Riley. His family’s statement, released on July 22, 2025, expressed profound sadness: “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.”
