Ozzy Osbourne—born John Michael Osbourne—was more than just a rock star. Known as the “Prince of Darkness,” he broke barriers in heavy metal, launched a crazy solo career, and even became a reality‑TV dad.
Sadly, on July 22, 2025, Ozzy passed away at the age of 76, leaving fans worldwide heartbroken. But how did he die? And what did he leave behind? Let’s dig in.
How Did Ozzy Osbourne Die?
When his family announced the news on that fateful July day, they said he “passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.” It was a bittersweet moment for his devoted wife Sharon, their kids, and millions of fans everywhere.
Ozzy’s death was the culmination of years of serious health struggles—most notably Parkinson’s disease. He revealed his diagnosis back in 2020, reassuring everyone it wasn't a death sentence.
However, in recent years, the disease had advanced significantly, messing with his legs, causing chronic pain, and making it tough to move around.
On top of that, Ozzy had a major spinal injury from a quad‑bike crash in 2003. He broke his neck, collarbone, and ribs—some say he was clinically dead for about 90 seconds.
A later bathroom fall in 2019 dislodged metal rods in his spine, requiring multiple surgeries involving screws and pins.
By 2023, the effects of surgeries, infections, and the nerve‑wasting illness became too much.
Ozzy had to retire from touring. But, in classic Ozzy style, he defied expectations with a farewell performance on July 5, 2025, with Black Sabbath in Birmingham—his hometown.
After pouring his heart out on stage, he took the throne (literally!) and said, “What’s the f‑ing point in half‑arsing it?” He gave fans one final bow—then bowed out for good a little over two weeks later.
Ozzy’s Insane Achievements
With Black Sabbath (1969–1979, 2025)
Ozzy co‑founded Black Sabbath in 1968 along with Iommi, Butler, and Ward. They released landmark albums like Black Sabbath, Paranoid, Master of Reality, and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath.
These records didn’t just do well—they practically invented metal. Sabbath sold tens of millions of albums. Long story short: they’re rock royalty.
In February 2025, the band reunited to headline “Back to the Beginning” at Villa Park in Birmingham.
It was billed as their final performance, first time all original members were onstage together since 2005—and Ozzy’s last ever gig. The concert raised £140 million for charity and cemented their legacy yet again.
Solo Powerhouse
Ozzy was kicked out of Black Sabbath in 1979, battling substance issues and creative clashes. But did that slow him down? Heck no. He exploded into solo fame, dropping Blizzard of Ozz in 1980 with anthem tracks like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.”
His solo catalog grew to include 13 studio albums—seven of which went multi‑platinum. Hits like Diary of a Madman, No More Tears, and Ozzmosis kept him relevant for decades. All told, Ozzy sold over 100 million albums worldwide (solo and with Sabbath!).
Ozzfest: Festival King
In 1996, Ozzy and Sharon launched Ozzfest, a touring rock and metal festival. It became a cultural force, featuring hundreds of bands—and a gold mine.
Over the years, Ozzfest drew millions of fans and grossed north of $100 million. It became legendary for showcasing up‑and‑coming bands and keeping metal alive on the festival circuit.
Reality Star Dad
In 2002, The Osbournes burst onto MTV, with Ozzy as the grumpy, lovable patriarch of an out‑of‑control household. The show was a ratings giant and won an Emmy. It introduced Ozzy to a whole new generation—no guitar required.
Dollars, Dollars, Dollars: Ozzy’s Earnings
So how much was all this worth? Drum roll… Ozzy’s net worth was estimated at around $220 million as of mid‑2025.
That figure includes everything—record sales, concert revenues, streaming royalties, merch, Ozzfest proceeds, and reality‑TV pay.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Black Sabbath: 100 million+ albums sold = serious royalties and catalog income.
- Solo Career: 13 albums, mega‑hits, solo tours—over $100 million in record and touring revenue.
- Ozzfest: festival profits, merch, sponsorships—shipped in at least $100 million gross.
- The Osbournes: TV deals, product tie‑ins, syndication money.
- Merchandise & Branding: T‑shirts, perfumes, collaborations—you name it.
Together, Ozzy leveraged each phase of his life into lasting value. Not bad for the teenage school drop‑out from Birmingham.
In Memory
Look, Ozzy’s gone—but man, did he live. He pushed music forward, made billions, crashed hard, and rose again. His life was messy, loud, unapologetic—and totally human.
He loved his family, he rocked like hell, and he didn’t give a damn what anybody thought.
These days, people are paying tribute worldwide. From arena echoes to fire-lit screens, Ozzy remains immortal in riffs, laughs, and that forever‑booming voice.
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