Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic lead vocalist of Black Sabbath, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed his death on July 22, 2025, stating he was surrounded by loved ones at the time. The cause of death was not specified, though Osbourne had been battling Parkinson's disease in recent years. He was widely recognized as a pioneering figure in the development of heavy metal music, known for his distinctive voice and theatrical stage presence. His career with Black Sabbath and later as a solo artist left a lasting impact on the music industry.
In his final years, Osbourne reunited with the original members of Black Sabbath for a farewell concert titled "Back to the Beginning" on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, England. This event marked the first time since 2005 that the original lineup performed together live. Despite his health challenges, Osbourne delivered a memorable performance, seated on a throne due to his inability to stand. The concert was streamed worldwide, allowing fans globally to witness this historic event.
Osbourne's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the music community. Fellow Black Sabbath members, including Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, expressed their sorrow and celebrated their time together. Other artists, such as Elton John and Tom Morello, also paid their respects, highlighting Osbourne's influence across various music genres. His passing marks the end of an era for heavy metal, but his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.