Prince of Darkness' Black Sabbath star died 'surrounded by love'

OZZY OSBOURNE, 1948-2025

- By Allister Hagger

HELL-RAISING Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne died yesterday, just weeks after reuniting with his bandmates and performing a huge farewell concert for fans.

The family of the heavy metal pioneer, 76, said: “It is with more sadness than 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.”

Ozzy was battling Parkinson’s disease and had other health problems in recent years, including complications from injuries from a 2019 fall.

Last night Sir Rod Stewart, 80, said on Instagram: “Bye, Bye Ozzy. Sleep well, my friend. I'll see you up there - later rather than sooner.”

Sir Elton John posted: “He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods — a true legend.

“He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly.” Rolling Stones legend

Ronnie Wood, 78, shared a picture of him with Ozzy and said he was “so very sad” at his death.

He added: “What a lovely goodbye concert he had at Back To The Beginning in Birmingham.”

Queen guitarist Sir Brian May, 78, said Ozzy’s final concert “was a glorious way to say goodbye”.

As Black Sabbath’s frontman, Ozzy was at the forefront of the heavy metal scene a deeper, darker offshoot of hard rock.