Black Sabbath's Ozzy Osbourne dies aged 76, his family announces

Los Angeles, July 22, 2025 — Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and a pioneering figure in heavy metal, has died at the age of 76, his family announced today. Osbourne, known as the "Prince of Darkness," passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement released by his wife, Sharon Osbourne.

Osbourne’s death marks the end of an era for rock and heavy metal music. Rising to fame in the early 1970s as the lead singer of Black Sabbath, he helped define the sound and style of heavy metal, influencing generations of musicians worldwide. Hits like "Paranoid," "Iron Man," and "War Pigs" remain staples of the genre.

Enduring Legacy in Music

Beyond his work with Black Sabbath, Osbourne enjoyed a highly successful solo career, releasing multiple platinum albums and singles, including "Crazy Train" and "No More Tears." He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Black Sabbath in 2006 and received numerous accolades for his contributions to music.

Osbourne was also widely known for his larger-than-life persona and reality TV stardom, notably with "The Osbournes," which brought his family into the public eye in the early 2000s. His candidness about personal struggles, including his battles with addiction and health issues, made him an enduring public figure for over five decades.

Tributes from the Music World

Following the announcement of his death, musicians and fans across the globe have paid tribute to Osbourne’s influence and legacy. Major artists from Metallica to Foo Fighters shared condolences and praised his role in shaping modern rock and metal.

• Influence: Osbourne’s signature voice and stage presence inspired countless bands and artists.
• Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards and MTV honors highlighted his career.
• Philanthropy: Osbourne supported numerous charities, particularly those focused on addiction recovery and mental health.

Health Struggles in Recent Years

Osbourne had faced ongoing health challenges in the past decade, including a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in 2020 and recovery from several surgeries. Despite these setbacks, he remained active in the music industry, releasing his latest solo album in 2023 and making occasional public appearances.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, their children Aimee, Kelly, and Jack, and several grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Osbourne family in the coming days.

Osbourne’s passing is mourned by fans worldwide, but his profound impact on music and culture will endure for generations.