On the morning of July 22, 2025, the world awoke to heartbreaking news: Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness” and founding voice of Black Sabbath, had passed away at the age of 76. He died peacefully at home in England, surrounded by his wife Sharon and children Louis, Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. Though his health battles were widely known, his death still came as a shock to millions who had grown up with his music — and his rebellion.
Just two days earlier, Ozzy had posted a cryptic message to social media:
“When the lights go down, remember I was never afraid of the dark.”
Fans, at the time, had interpreted it as poetic reflection. Only now, in hindsight, does it read as a final goodbye.
Ozzy Osbourne’s life was nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Birmingham, England, in 1949, he rose from poverty to global fame, first as the frontman of Black Sabbath and later as a solo artist whose influence reshaped the landscape of rock and metal. His gravelly voice, theatrical performances, and unfiltered personality made him one of the most iconic and unpredictable figures in music history.
Hits like Paranoid, Crazy Train, and Mr. Crowley weren’t just songs — they were anthems of a generation disillusioned with conformity. And despite — or perhaps because of — his well-documented struggles with addiction and controversy, Ozzy remained a deeply human figure in the eyes of fans. He never hid his flaws. He owned them.
In his later years, Ozzy became known not only for his music but also for his openness about his health. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020, he continued to make public appearances, often supported by Sharon, while vowing to fight on. “I’m not done yet,” he would say. “I’ve still got music in me.” And he did — releasing Patient Number 9 in 2022, which was met with critical acclaim.
But in private, those close to him say he had been preparing. In recent months, he had reportedly spent more time with his grandchildren, revisited old recordings, and even penned handwritten letters to each of his children.
“He was tired,” Sharon said in a short statement.
“But he was at peace. And he wanted people to remember the joy — not the pain.”
Tributes have since poured in from across the world. From Metallica to Elton John, from fans in São Paulo to bikers in New Jersey, voices of mourning have been matched by playlists of his greatest hits. Candlelight vigils are being planned from Los Angeles to Tokyo.
In the end, Ozzy Osbourne wasn’t just a rock star. He was a force — of music, of defiance, of vulnerability. And though he’s gone, the echo of his voice will forever howl through the speakers of the world.
Long live the Prince.