The rock world stands in mourning as John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne, legendary Black Sabbath frontman and solo star, has passed away at age 76. His family confirmed last night in a statement that Ozzy died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after an iconic final performance in his hometown of Birmingham .
Battling Parkinson’s, Yet Defiant Until the End
Ozzy’s frail condition, exacerbated by Parkinson’s disease and years of spinal injuries, made it impossible for him to stand during his farewell concert. On July 5, in an emotional homecoming at Villa Park, he performed seated on a gothic-style throne — a poignant image of resilience . Prior to the show, wife Sharon shared that while Ozzy struggled physically, his voice remained as powerful as ever .
He openly reflected on his condition during a SiriusXM broadcast earlier this year, admitting, “I can’t walk,” but adding, “For all my complaining, I’m still alive.” His health journey included major spinal surgeries and a public reveal of his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2003 .
A Grand Goodbye with Charity at Its Heart
The historic concert, titled Back to the Beginning, marked the first time Ozzy reunited on stage with original Black Sabbath members since 2005. The performance raised over £140 million for Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice . It featured guest performances from rock legends like Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, Steven Tyler, Slash, and more — a testament to Ozzy’s wide-reaching influence .
Ozzy addressed fans tearfully: “I’ve been laid up for six years… thank you from the bottom of my heart.” His final act wasn’t just a show—it was a heartfelt farewell to a lifetime of devotion to music and fans .
A Final Chapter:
No Escape from Now
Documentary
Fans will get an in‑depth look at Ozzy’s courage and vulnerability in the forthcoming Paramount+ documentary Ozzy Osbourne: No Escape from Now. Filmed since early 2022, it covers his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s, his quad‑bike injuries, and the build‑up to his final performance . Sharon said the project was meant to inspire others “facing similar issues,” revealing a deeply personal glimpse into his life after fame .
An Enduring Legacy
From pioneering heavy metal in the late ’60s to launching a successful solo career with hits like Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman, Ozzy’s influence spans generations. His trials and triumphs—onstage and off—weren’t hidden behind the curtain. With this final bow in Birmingham—and a world streaming his last performance—Ozzy cemented not just a legacy of music, but of humanity, resilience, and closing his career on a defiant, spirited note .
