OZZY OSBOURNE

BLACK SABBATH FRONTMAN AND HEAVY METAL ICON DIES AT 76

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Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of heavy metal group Black Sabbath, died on Tuesday at the age of 76, his family said, just weeks after he gave an epic farewell concert. The hell-raising singer, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019, passed away just over a fortnight after playing a final gig before a sold-out crowd in his home city of Birmingham, England.

“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,” said a family statement.

“He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

Tributes poured in for the notorious figure nicknamed the “Prince of Darkness”, who once bit off the head of a bat while on stage. His original bandmates posted tributes on social media, with guitarist Tony Iommi saying, “there won't be another like him”, and bassist Geezer Butler saying “So glad we got to do it one last time, back in Aston. Love you.”

Drummer Bill Ward said Osbourne would forever be in his heart and signed off his post with “Never goodbye. Thank you forever”.