Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath Frontman and Heavy Metal Icon, Dies at 76
Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and one of the defining figures of British heavy metal, has died at the age of 76, less than three weeks after delivering his final performance. Known worldwide as the “Prince of Darkness,” Osbourne’s family confirmed his passing in a statement, saying he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. No official cause of death has been disclosed, though Osbourne had battled numerous health issues in recent years.
“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,” the Osbourne family said. “We ask everyone to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Born John Michael Osbourne in Aston, Birmingham, in 1948, Ozzy rose from a working-class upbringing to become one of the most recognizable voices in rock history. His signature voice, haunting stage presence, and rebellious spirit helped shape Black Sabbath, whose dark, heavy sound would lay the foundation for heavy metal music. Their early albums — including Paranoid (1970) and Master of Reality (1971) — remain landmark releases in the genre.
Black Sabbath’s influence was immense, and Osbourne’s wild image became the stuff of legend. Yet, behind the persona was an artist of innovation, endurance, and deep vulnerability. He recorded eight studio albums with the band before being dismissed in 1979 due to substance abuse. He went on to launch a hugely successful solo career, beginning with Blizzard of Ozz (1980), and releasing 13 studio albums in total, with his final album Patient Number 9 arriving in 2022.
Osbourne’s reputation was equal parts brilliance and chaos. In 1982, he notoriously bit the head off a bat onstage in Iowa, believing it to be a prop. Earlier, he bit the heads off two doves during a meeting with record executives. He was also open about his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction, and the toll it took on his personal life, including his first marriage to Thelma Riley, with whom he had two children.
In 1982, he married Sharon Osbourne, who became his manager and partner through decades of highs and lows. Together, they had three children — Aimee, Kelly, and Jack — and starred in the wildly popular MTV reality show The Osbournes (2002–2005), which made Ozzy a household name to a new generation of fans. The show portrayed his life at home with humor, chaos, and authenticity, winning an Emmy in 2002.
Behind the public image, Osbourne faced profound personal and health challenges. He survived a near-fatal quad bike accident in 2003, was diagnosed with Parkin syndrome in 2005 and later revealed he was living with Parkinson’s disease from 2020 onward. Multiple surgeries, including spinal procedures and experimental treatments, followed. In 2023, he canceled a European tour, citing that he was “physically weak” and no longer able to handle the demands of touring.
On 5 July 2025, in what became his final public performance, Ozzy reunited with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward for “Back to the Beginning,” a farewell concert celebrating Black Sabbath’s legacy. Visibly emotional, he told the crowd, “I’ve been laid up for six years, and you’ve got no idea how I feel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Ozzy’s music and myth were inseparable, but in his later years, he became a figure of resilience and reflection. Despite controversy and hardship, he remained deeply loved by fans and respected by fellow musicians. From Iron Man to No More Tears, his songs helped define an entire genre and inspired generations of artists.
He leaves behind a monumental legacy — not only as a founding father of metal but as a man who lived through chaos, pain, fame, and ultimately, peace. Ozzy Osbourne may be gone, but his voice, spirit, and impact will echo through the world of music for generations to come.