Heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, known as the "Prince of Darkness" and frontman of Black Sabbath, passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. His family released a statement confirming his death, stating, "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 exact cause of death was not disclosed, though Osbourne had battled various health issues, including Parkinson's disease, for several years.
His passing prompted reflections on his distinctive public persona, often characterized by a rebellious spirit and candid remarks. The New Yorker, in a recent tweet following his death, quoted Osbourne saying, > "The only evil spirits I’m interested in are called whisky, vodka, and gin." This statement encapsulated his notorious struggles with substance abuse, a theme he openly addressed throughout his life, often stating that all the bad things that happened to him were "directly attributed to drugs and alcohol."
Born John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham, England, he rose to global fame in the 1970s as the lead vocalist of Black Sabbath, a band widely credited with inventing heavy metal music. After leaving the group, Osbourne launched a highly successful solo career, releasing numerous multi-platinum albums like "Blizzard of Ozz" and "Diary of a Madman." In the early 2000s, he gained a new generation of fans through the hit MTV reality show "The Osbournes," which showcased his eccentric family life.
Osbourne's death came just over two weeks after his poignant final performance with Black Sabbath. On July 5, 2025, he reunited with his original bandmates for the "Back to the Beginning" concert in Birmingham, a show that was billed as his last. Despite his ongoing health challenges, which included a Parkinson's diagnosis in 2020 and various injuries, he delivered a memorable performance, often seated on a throne due to his physical condition.
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry and beyond, with fellow musicians and fans mourning the loss of a true original. Osbourne's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on music and popular culture. His unique voice, stage presence, and unapologetic lifestyle cemented his legacy as one of rock's most enduring and influential figures.