It is with immeasurable sadness and disbelief that I report Ozzy Osbourne – the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, legendary solo artist, unbelievable personality, and the man responsible for the music we love – has died at 76, his family confirmed on July 22, 2025.
A statement from his family said: “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. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
Ozzy Osbourne, born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, was – and will always be – one of the most iconic figures in rock and heavy metal history. He first rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath.
Formed in the late 1960s, Black Sabbath revolutionized rock music with their dark, heavy sound and themes of doom, evil, and the occult. Their debut album, Black Sabbath, and follow-ups like Paranoid and Master of Reality helped lay the groundwork for the heavy metal genre.
Osbourne‘s time with Black Sabbath was marked by both creative brilliance and personal chaos. His wild behavior and substance abuse issues became legendary, leading to his eventual dismissal from the band in 1979. However, this setback marked the beginning of an even more successful solo career.
With the release of Blizzard of Ozz in 1980, which featured classics like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley,” Ozzy proved that he could thrive outside of Sabbath. His solo work continued to shape the heavy metal genre and won him legions of devoted fans.
In addition to his musical achievements, Ozzy Osbourne became a pop culture icon thanks to his larger-than-life personality. This was perhaps most evident in the early 2000s with the reality TV show The Osbournes, which followed the chaotic day-to-day life of the Osbourne family. The show introduced Ozzy to a new generation and showcased a softer, often humorous side of the so-called Prince of Darkness. It also helped cement his status as a household name beyond just music fans.
Throughout his career, Ozzy has faced numerous health challenges, including injuries from accidents and a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in 2020. Despite these setbacks, he has shown remarkable resilience, continuing to record and occasionally perform. His longevity in the music industry is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the deep connection he has maintained with his fans for over five decades.
Ozzy Osbourne‘s legacy is one of innovation, rebellion, and reinvention. We’ll never, ever forget you. We love you.
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