Ozzy Osbourne, Legendary Prince of Darkness, Dies at 76
Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath and a pioneering force in heavy metal, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news in a statement released this morning, july 22. The BBC reports that no cause of death has been disclosed.Osbourne’s family shared their profound sadness, stating, “It is wiht more sadness then 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.”
This somber announcement follows closely on the heels of Osbourne’s retirement show,”Back To The Beginning,” held on July 5 in his hometown of Birmingham.The celebratory event featured Osbourne performing both a solo set and a reunion with fellow Black Sabbath founding members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. The star-studded lineup also included performances by Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Anthrax, and Slayer.Proceeds from the concert are earmarked for various Birmingham charities,and a concert film is slated for cinematic release next year.
Osbourne, who co-founded Black Sabbath in 1968, released eight albums with the band before departing in 1979. He then embarked on a highly prosperous solo career, launching it with the 1980 album Blizzard Of Ozz. Osbourne reunited with Black Sabbath from 1997 to 2006 and again from 2011 to 2017.
He is survived by his wife and manager, Sharon, whom he married in 1982, and their six children.
This story is being updated.
