In Loving Memory of Ozzy Osbourne (1948–2025)
Rock Legend, Black Sabbath Frontman & Cultural Icon
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne, the iconic “Prince of Darkness,” who died on July 22, 2025, at age 76. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, following a brief illness, according to a statement from his loved ones .
Trailblazer of Heavy Metal
Ozzy rose to fame in the late 1960s as the charismatic, erratic frontman of Black Sabbath, whose self-titled debut album in 1970 helped define the heavy metal genre. Tracks like “Iron Man,” “Paranoid,” and “War Pigs” propelled the band to international acclaim. After parting ways in 1979, Ozzy launched a prolific solo career, delivering hard-hitting hits “Crazy Train,” “Flying High Again,” and “No More Tears” that cemented his legacy .
Entertainer & Cultural Influence
Ozzy’s wild stage antics and rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle became legendary, shaping the image of modern metal culture. In the early 2000s, he and his family achieved pop-culture fame with the MTV reality show The Osbournes, which won an Emmy and left a lasting impact on television . Known for biting a bat during a 1982 performance believed to be extremely rebellious his shock-rock antics only amplified his mystique .
A Life of Adversity & Triumph
Ozzy faced numerous health challenges in recent years, including a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2020, a serious neck injury in 2019, and other complications. Yet he remained creatively active, launching legacy concerts like the July 5 farewell show with Black Sabbath in Birmingham .
Family & Personal Life
Born December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, to working-class parents, Ozzy led a tumultuous personal life marked by addiction struggles and controversy. He married Sharon Osbourne in 1982 and became a father to five children. Family life, particularly on The Osbournes, revealed a tender side behind the chaos .
Honors & Legacy
Inducted twice into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 with Black Sabbath and again as a solo artist in 2024 . Founder of Ozzfest, which showcased heavy metal and hard rock acts worldwide from 1996 onward . Recipient of multiple Grammy Awards, including recognition with his daughter Kelly for their duet “Changes” .
Remembering Ozzy’s Legacy
Ozzy Osbourne’s influence spans decades: a rebel who redefined rock performance, a survivor who inspired with his resilience, and a family man who connected through candid reality TV. His contributions to Black Sabbath, solo music, television, and the global metal community have left an indelible cultural scar that will resonate for generations.
