Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary British rocker and former frontman of Black Sabbath, has died at the age of 76 on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. His family confirmed the news with a heartfelt statement, sharing that he passed away peacefully, “surrounded by love.” Born John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham in 1948, Ozzy became a pioneering force in heavy metal music. Black Sabbath’s groundbreaking debut in 1970 launched him into international stardom, and his influence reshaped rock history on both sides of the Atlantic.
Ozzy’s health troubles spanned more than two decades. In 2003, a near-fatal quad bike accident left him with a serious neck injury, requiring extensive back surgeries and metal rods in his spine. That same year, he was diagnosed with a form of Parkinson’s disease—though he didn’t publicly share the news until 2020. In a candid appearance on Good Morning America, alongside his wife Sharon, he revealed the condition as “Parkin two,” a variation that affects the nervous system and brought unpredictable ups and downs to his daily life.
His condition worsened following a fall in 2019, which dislodged the spinal hardware from his earlier surgeries. Over the next five years, Ozzy endured seven surgeries, including a major spinal operation in 2023 that revealed and removed a tumor on his vertebra. He openly spoke about the physical toll, describing himself as “crippled” and unable to balance properly. The surgeries further complicated his Parkinson’s symptoms and significantly limited his mobility.
Despite these challenges, Ozzy’s spirit remained unbroken. In a 2023 Rolling Stone interview, he said his biggest wish was to perform one final show for his fans—a way to say goodbye and thank them for their support. In July 2025, just weeks before his passing, Ozzy made that dream a reality by performing at a benefit concert in Birmingham. Unable to stand, he delivered his farewell while seated on a black throne, a powerful symbol of resilience and gratitude that deeply moved those in attendance.
Ozzy’s personal life was marked by both turmoil and triumph. After leaving Black Sabbath in 1978 and going through a turbulent divorce from his first wife, Thelma Mayfair, he rebuilt his career with the help of Sharon Osbourne, whom he married in 1982. Together, they weathered personal battles and launched a successful solo career for Ozzy, as well as a hit reality TV show, The Osbournes, in 2001. Ozzy is survived by Sharon and his five children: Jessica, Louis, Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. His legacy will endure as a symbol of both musical greatness and enduring strength in the face of adversity.
