“Ozzy Osbourne” dies at age 76
Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath and a defining figure in rock music, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. Born John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham, England, he rose to fame in the early 1970s as the lead singer of Black Sabbath, a band that played a pivotal role in shaping the heavy metal genre. With classic hits like "Paranoid," "Iron Man," and "War Pigs," Osbourne's powerful vocals and theatrical stage presence helped the band sell over 100 million records worldwide.
Osbourne became infamous in 1982 for an incident in which he bit the head off a bat thrown on stage by a fan, believing it to be a toy. This shocking act led to a hospital visit for a rabies shot and solidified his reputation as the "Prince of Darkness." Known for his tumultuous lifestyle, he often faced criticism from conservative and religious groups concerned about the negative influence of rock music on young people. Despite this, he maintained a loyal fan base and continued to push boundaries in music.
In 2002, Osbourne reinvented himself as a reality TV star on "The Osbournes," which showcased his family life with wife Sharon and children Jack and Kelly. The show introduced him to a new generation of fans and highlighted his humorous and relatable side, contrasting with his rock star persona.
Despite revealing a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease in 2020, Osbourne made a memorable farewell performance on July 5, 2025, in Birmingham.
Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians, including Elton John, Metallica, and Jack White, as well as public figures, recognizing Osbourne's profound impact on music and culture. Osbourne's death marks the end of a monumental era in rock and heavy metal, but his legacy as a trailblazer, survivor, and cultural icon will endure.
