Sharon Osbourne battled behind the scenes to grant Ozzy Osbourne’s final wish, which was to say goodbye to his fans on his own terms, just weeks before he passed away. Due to insurance issues, the July 5, 2025, “Back to the Beginning” benefit concert in Birmingham almost didn’t happen.
Due to fall risks from Parkinson’s disease and other health conditions, the insurers declined to pay for the event if Ozzy stood or walked on stage. Unfazed, Sharon worked out a compromise: Ozzy would perform while perched on a specially made bat-shaped throne.
Ozzy agreed, but was disappointed because he had trained to stand for months. According to a source, “Ozzy was upset because he trained for months.” He nevertheless put in his best effort, training every day, keeping a close eye on his vitals, and donning a pulse oximeter.
In addition to raising millions of dollars, the performance gave Ozzy the opportunity to honorably end his illustrious career.
Ozzy’s nearly $220 million legacy is the result of decades of music, Ozzfest, and a popular reality show. His six children—three with Sharon and three with Thelma Riley—raise concerns regarding his estate. Legal professionals caution that inheritance disputes could occur in the absence of a clear will.
Even suggesting funeral pranks, Ozzy frequently made jokes about death, once stating, “Just don’t make it a mope-fest.” What is his favorite funeral song? The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life.”
Gillian Hemming and Jean Powell, his sisters, were taken aback by his unexpected passing. Jean stated, “He still had plans.” “We’re just grateful that he passed away in England.”
Ozzy’s farewell concert was their last recollection of him; it was a wild, triumphant occasion. “I’ll be back in Birmingham again,” were his final words to Jean.
With a wink and a roar, Ozzy left the way he lived: on his own terms.
