Alice Cooper stops city show to pay tribute to ‘showman and icon’ Osbourne

ROCK STAR Alice Cooper has described Ozzy Osbourne as an “unmatched showman and cultural icon” following news of the death of the Black Sabbath frontman at the age of 76.

- HOLLY MORGAN, LAUREN DEL FABBRO, TED HENNESSEY AND JESSICA COATES

Cooper, 77, halted his show in Cardiff to pay tribute to the heavy metal singer, joining the likes of Sir Elton John, Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood and other famous faces after Osbourne's death was announced by his family on Tuesday evening.

In a statement, they 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’s privacy at this time.”

‘The news came just days after Osbourne performed live for the final time with Black Sabbath on July 5.

On Tuesday night, American singer Cooper and his band found out the news just minutes before going on stage at the capital's Utilita Arena.

Cooper recorded the following quote for his radio show, Alice's Attic, before going on stage: “Well, we all know that time is going to take us rockers, but when the giants fall, it’s really hard to accept.

“Even though everybody saw it coming with Ozzy, it just took our breath away when it happened.

“So Ozzy and family - your records and your music and your legend and all that you brought - the humour to the rock business - will live on forever and we're gonna miss you, man.”

Cooper and his band then dedicated the show to Osbourne’s memory.

He said: “The whole world is mourning Ozzy tonight. Over his long career he earned immense respect among his peers and from fans around the world as an unmatched showman and cultural icon.