Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath frontman and icon of British heavy metal, dies aged 76

Published: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 6:12 pm

Ozzy Osbourne, Rock Icon, Dies at 76

Ozzy Osbourne, the charismatic frontman of Black Sabbath and a towering figure in heavy metal, has passed away at the age of 76. The announcement came from the Osbourne family, who requested privacy during this difficult time. No cause of death was specified, though Osbourne had battled various health issues in recent years.

Osbourne's career was marked by both musical innovation and a tumultuous personal life. He was a pioneer of heavy metal, his distinctive vocals helping to define the genre. He was known for his stage presence, including the infamous incident where he bit the head off a bat. His struggles with substance abuse and his attempt to murder his wife, Sharon, were well-documented. Later in life, he found renewed fame as a reality TV star on "The Osbournes."

Osbourne's death comes shortly after his retirement from performing. In July, he reunited with his original Black Sabbath bandmates for a farewell concert, marking their first performance together since 2005. The concert, featuring other prominent metal acts, was a poignant moment for fans.

Born in 1948, Osbourne's working-class upbringing in Birmingham, England, influenced his musical style. Black Sabbath, formed in the late 1960s, released a string of influential albums that helped shape the heavy metal sound. Osbourne's solo career, launched after his departure from Black Sabbath, produced numerous successful albums.

Throughout his career, Osbourne faced numerous challenges, including addiction, health problems, and legal issues. He was arrested for attempting to murder his wife, Sharon, but the couple later reconciled. He also suffered a serious quad biking accident and was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Despite these setbacks, Osbourne remained a resilient figure, continuing to record and perform until recent years.

BNN's Perspective: Ozzy Osbourne's life was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll. His impact on music and popular culture is undeniable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans.

Keywords: Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, heavy metal, rock icon, death, music, The Osbournes, Sharon Osbourne, Parkinson's, concert, retirement, albums, singer, frontman, band

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