Ozzy Osbourne, the renowned lead singer of the 1970s heavy metal group Black Sabbath, gained fame for biting the head off a bat during a live performance and living a wild, drug-fueled lifestyle before transitioning into a beloved yet often profane reality TV personality.
Osbourne, affectionately known as the “Prince of Darkness” and a pioneer of heavy metal music, passed away at the age of 76 on Tuesday morning, as confirmed by a family announcement. The statement, issued on behalf of the family to CBC News, expressed deep sorrow at the loss and requested privacy during this emotional time.
While the exact cause of death was not disclosed, Osbourne had faced various health challenges in recent times. In January 2020, he revealed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, a type known as Parkinsonism or Parkin 2, following an incident where he fell. Additionally, he disclosed having emphysema in the same year, expressing concerns about the potential impact of COVID-19 due to his health condition.
His music career kick-started in the early 1970s with Black Sabbath, delivering hits like “Paranoid,” “War Pigs,” and “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath.” His solo ventures, alongside numerous record releases, led to over 100 million records sold globally. Osbourne was twice honored in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, first with Sabbath in 2006 and later in 2024 as a solo artist.
Survived by his wife and manager, Sharon, and their children Jack, Kelly, and Aimee, as well as children from his previous marriage, Osbourne’s legacy in the music industry remains profound. His career span was marked by reinventions, including a return to Black Sabbath, culminating in a final album release in 2013 and a farewell concert in 2017.
Osbourne’s theatrical performances and dark lyrical themes, coupled with controversial acts like biting a bat’s head, stirred reactions from conservative groups. Despite acknowledging his past excesses and controversial lyrics, he refuted claims of being a devil-worshipper.
Born John Michael Osbourne in Aston, Birmingham, he faced struggles early in life but found fame and success with Black Sabbath. His later years saw him embraced by a new audience through the reality TV show “The Osbournes,” showcasing his family life.
Tributes poured in for the late rock icon, with bandmates, fellow musicians, and fans honoring his legacy and impact on the music industry. Elton John, Rod Stewart, and Piers Morgan were among those who shared heartfelt messages commemorating Osbourne’s life and career.