Ozzy Osbourne Death: Heavy Metal Icon Dies at 76 Surrounded by Family
The Prince of Darkness Takes His Final Bow
The music world is mourning the death of Ozzy Osbourne, legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, who passed away at the age of 76. The announcement came from his family, who shared that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Did you attend the cinema premiere of The 9 Lives of Ozzy Osbourne at @MillenniumPoint on 4th July? pic.twitter.com/K4ZyVe6eOH
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) July 20, 2025
“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,” the family wrote.
“He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
The Ozzy Osbourne death news marks the end of an era for rock and metal fans worldwide.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2019
Ozzy had been open about his health struggles in recent years. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019, he had stepped back from touring but continued to make public appearances and record music.
I am so very sad to hear of the death of Ozzy Osbourne 💔🙏 What a lovely goodbye concert he had at Back To The Beginning in Birmingham🙏☀️❤️🎤 pic.twitter.com/Z6V2CNXWNG
— Ronnie Wood (@ronniewood) July 22, 2025
Just two weeks before his passing, Ozzy took part in Black Sabbath’s farewell concert in Birmingham—his hometown—making his final performance one of deep emotional resonance for fans and bandmates alike.
Reflecting on a Historic Career
Scenes tonight at Birmingham’s famous Black Sabbath bench as fans pay tribute following the death of metal legend Ozzy Osbourne 💜
📸 @yasminesummanx pic.twitter.com/sTvNXqCfIM
— Rock Sound (@rocksound) July 22, 2025
In a heartfelt 2017 interview, Ozzy reflected on the journey of Black Sabbath and the extraordinary legacy the band leaves behind.
“It just felt right,” he said of the band’s decision to retire. “To finish the very last show in Birmingham where we first started 49 years ago… that’s amazing.”
Ozzy shared how surreal it felt to reach the end of a nearly 50-year-long journey that began in humble Birmingham pubs and ended on global stages.
From Working-Class Roots to Rock God
Scenes tonight at Birmingham’s famous Black Sabbath bench as fans pay tribute following the death of metal legend Ozzy Osbourne 💜
📸 @yasminesummanx pic.twitter.com/sTvNXqCfIM
— Rock Sound (@rocksound) July 22, 2025
Born in Aston, Birmingham, John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne rose from a working-class background to become one of the most recognized voices in music history. He often spoke of his humble beginnings and the sheer disbelief that followed his success.
“When I started, I came from the low-end side of town. To do what I’ve done and meet who I’ve met—it’s mind-blowing,” he once said.
In one touching anecdote, he recalled his father letting him stay up on Christmas Eve to see Elizabeth Taylor on television. Years later, in 2003, Ozzy was stunned to find himself sharing a room with her—proof of how far he had come.
The Godfather of Heavy Metal
Backstage footage from Ozzy Osbourne’s final farewell concert shows the rocker smiling whilst being surrounded by fellow music legends, just weeks before his death. pic.twitter.com/w5jc0hOVFb
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) July 24, 2025
Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath are widely credited with inventing heavy metal. Their dark, distorted sound and apocalyptic lyrics broke new ground in rock music.
“When we did the first Black Sabbath album, I thought it’d be alright for a couple of years,” Ozzy laughed. “But it’s been a blessing—I had the best life out of it.”
Despite ups and downs—both musically and personally—Ozzy remained beloved by fans across generations. His influence reached new heights with Ozzfest, which introduced younger fans to metal music and featured rising bands who saw Black Sabbath as their inspiration.
A Humble Icon, Loved by Millions
Ozzy Osbourne raised $189,000,000 for charity during his final farewell concert, weeks before his death.
The farewell performance in Birmingham, UK raised an estimated £140 million ($189M) which will be equally split between Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Acorns Children’s… pic.twitter.com/UsWw4DVhaf
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) July 23, 2025
Even as he achieved worldwide fame, Ozzy remained surprisingly humble. He often joked about the odd contradiction of being either too recognized or not recognized enough in public.
“If people recognize me, I get very humble. But if they don’t, I get kind of upset,” he said with a laugh.
Ozzy’s appeal went beyond his music. He became a pop culture icon with the reality show The Osbournes, revealing a softer, family-oriented side of the wild rocker.
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
Ozzy Osbourne has died suddenly after years of illness which mysteriously started after getting vaccinate. He cancelled concerts after experiencing blood clots in his legs. He had a filter placed in his artery to protect spread to his heart and brain.
RIP Ozzy 🙏 pic.twitter.com/AWxmaiY4GV
— Dutch Copeland (@_paid2play) July 22, 2025
Following the Ozzy Osbourne death announcement, tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and celebrities flooded social media. Many remembered him as a trailblazer, a fighter, and a kind soul behind the wild persona.
Though Ozzy Osbourne has died, his legacy remains immortal. Songs like Paranoid, Iron Man, and War Pigs will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Final Thoughts: Goodbye, Ozzy
Ozzy Osbourne’s death marks the end of a chapter in rock history. From his raw vocals and chaotic stage presence to his candid interviews and heartfelt stories, Ozzy lived a life few could imagine.
As we say goodbye to the Prince of Darkness, we remember not just the legend—but the man, the father, the survivor. The world will never hear another voice like his.
