Ozzy Osbourne was handed the Prince of Darkness nickname after two self-reflections
Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath known for his haunting vocals and wild stage presence, has died at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news in a statement last night, revealing he died on Tuesday, July 22.
His death comes just weeks after Ozzy gave what would be his final live performance during the Back to the Beginning show at Villa Park, the home stadium of Aston Villa.
Born John Michael Osbourne, the Birmingham-born star rose to fame in the late 1960s as the lead singer of Black Sabbath, a band that would help define heavy metal music.
Known for its dark, ominous sound and controversial imagery, the group drew both a devoted fan base and fierce criticism from the music industry.
Watch Ozzy Osbourne's goodbye speech at last gig - I was there and won't forget his words
Ozzy Osbourne insider lifts the lid on why 'we just fell in love with' the family
As Black Sabbath's music gained notoriety, Ozzy earned the nickname the 'Prince of Darkness' for two key reasons — it was a title that reflected both the band's image, and also his own theatrical persona.
Originally called the Polka Tulk Blues Band, and later Earth, the band settled on the name Black Sabbath after spotting a theatre marquee across from their rehearsal space showing the 1963 Italian horror film Black Sabbath.
Inspired by the horror theme, the group wrote a song titled 'Black Sabbath', which became the title track of their groundbreaking 1970 debut album.
In a 2016 interview with NME, Ozzy reflected on how the band's eerie music resonated with early fans. 'When we started gigging way back when, as soon as we started playing this song's opening chords, young girls in the audience would... freak out,' he said. 'They thought we were Satan's... friends or something.'
Ozzy later downplayed the macabre nickname in a 2013 interview with the Broward Palm Beach New Times.
'It's a name. I didn't wake up one morning and go, 'You know what, I'm going to call myself…'' he said. 'It started as a joke name, really. I'm OK with it, you know? It's better than being called an a*******.'
Ozzy had been battling ill-health in recent years, and played his final ever gig just weeks before his death.
In a statement, the Osbourne family, including Ozzy's wife, Sharon, their daughters Kelly and Aimee, their son Jack and Ozzy's son, Louis, revealed the frontman died on Tuesday morning. 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 privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis." Ozzy's former Black Sabbath bandmates have also issued moving statements.
Sharon is said to have been left utterly devastated over Ozzy's death and heartbroken over the death of her best friend. While Ozzy's sisters shared their heartbreak at their brother's death, hailing him as "loving and funny".
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Daily Record
21 minutes ago
- Daily Record
Ozzy Osbourne's cause of death revealed days after star's funeral
Ozzy Osbourne's official cause of death has been confirmed after the Black Sabbath star died on July 22. Ozzy Osbourne's cause of death has been confirmed. The Prince of Darkness passed away aged 76 on July 22, while surrounded by his beloved wife Sharon and his children. Ozzy had been suffering with poor health in recent years, which he had publicly spoken about, but had been determined to make it to Villa Park, where he performed for the final time with his Black Sabbath bandmates just days before he passed away. His death certificate confirms that Ozzy died following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease and Parkinson's disease with autonomic dysfunction (joint causes). An acute myocardial infarction happens when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot, causing damage to the muscles of the heart. Symptoms can include pain in the chest, including pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing, pain in other parts of the body, including the arm, jaw, neck, back and stomach, lightheadedness, sweating, shortness of breath and feeling sick, the Mirror reports. Ozzy's youngest daughter, Kelly, shared a tear jerking tribute to her late father yesterday evening. She took to Instagram to write: "I've sat down to write this a hundred times and still don't know if the words will ever feel like enough... but from the bottom of my heart, thank you. "The love, support, and beautiful messages I've received from so many of you have truly helped carry me through the hardest moment of my life. Every kind word, every shared memory, every bit of compassion has meant more than I can ever explain. "Grief is a strange thing—it sneaks up on you in waves-I will not be ok for a while-but knowing my family are not alone in our pain makes a difference. "I'm holding on tight to the love, the light, and the legacy left behind. Thank you for being there. I love you all so much." She signed off" by writing: Kelly #BirminghamForever #OzzyForever" Ozzy was laid to rest last week during a private family funeral on their Buckinghamshire estate. The day before, the Osbournes put on a united family front and made a public appearance in the star's hometown of Birmingham where thousands of fans had gathered to grieve the loss of the heavy metal icon. Ozzy's coffin made it's way down Broad Street in a hearse, stopped beside the Black Sabbath bridge and bench which was adorned with fan tributes. Sharon and her three kids, Aimee, Kelly and Jack, who she shared with Ozzy, were joined by the rock icon's son Louis from a previous marriage, as they emotionally laid their own floral tributes. Birmingham City Council began gathering up the tributes on Monday so they can be stored before being handed over to the Osbourne family. The council said: 'In due course, they will be passed on to the Osbourne family, so they may keep them as a lasting reminder of the public's affection and support.' In a statement released through the city council, the Osbourne family said: 'We are deeply moved by the heartfelt tributes that have been placed at the Black Sabbath Bridge and at the Black Sabbath mural on Navigation Street in recent days. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "These expressions of remembrance reflect the profound impact that Ozzy had on the city and its people, as well as fans from around the world – BIRMINGHAM FOREVER!" Confirming that Ozzy had died last month, a statement from the family, released from his hometown, 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. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis." Speaking about his final performance at Villa Park on July 5, Ozzy's Black Sabbath bandmate, Geezer Butler, said the music icon was "frail" but "thrilled" to be able to perform for his fans one last time, who had stood by him throughout his career.
Daily Mirror
21 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
What is acute myocardial infarction as Ozzy Osbourne's cause of death confirmed
The Black Sabbath singer died last month shortly after his farewell gig and wedding anniversary to wife Sharon Ozzy Osbourne's death has been confirmed as stated in his death certificate. The Black Sabbath lead singer died last month at the age of 76. A message from his family at that time said: "It is with a sadness that goes beyond words that we must announce the passing of our dear Ozzy Osbourne this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time." In what would become his final gig, the 'Paranoid' singer took to the stage at Villa Park on July 5 for a Back to the Beginning farewell concert. While sat on a large black throne, he told fans: "It's so good to be on this stage. You have no idea. I love you all. Let me see your hands in the air." He added: "You are the best, each and every one of you. God bless you all. I don't know what to say, man. You've no idea how I feel - thank you from the bottom of my heart." Osbourne was buried beside the lake at his home in Buckinghamshire last week. Osbourne's death certificate states that he died from 'acute myocardial infarction' and 'out-of-hospital cardiac arrest'. The certificate also mentions coronary artery disease and Parkinson's disease with autonomic dysfunction as 'joint causes'. Ozzy's occupation was listed as 'songwriter, performer and rock legend'. The certificate indicates that Osbourne passed away due to "(a) cardiac arrest outside the hospital (b) acute myocardial infarction (c) coronary artery disease along with Parkinson's disease and autonomic dysfunction (Joint Causes)." The New York Times got hold of the document on Tuesday (August 5). What is acute myocardial infarction? Acute myocardial infarction, or heart attack, is a critical medical emergency where the heart muscle gets damaged or dies because of a sudden blockage in a coronary artery. This blockage, usually caused by a blood clot, cuts off oxygen to the heart tissue, resulting in necrosis (cell death). When blood flow is interrupted, heart muscle cells die (myocardial necrosis). The NHS says: "A heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) is a serious medical emergency in which the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly blocked, usually by a blood clot. A heart attack is a medical emergency. Call 999 and ask for an ambulance if you suspect a heart attack. A lack of blood to the heart may seriously damage the heart muscle and can be life threatening." Acute myocardial infarction is a serious issue that needs immediate medical help. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort that may spread to the arm, neck, jaw, or back. Other symptoms can be shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and dizziness. To diagnose it, doctors look at symptoms, do an electrocardiogram (ECG), and check cardiac biomarkers (like troponin). Treatment aims to restore blood flow to the heart muscle, often using reperfusion therapy (like angioplasty or fibrinolytic drugs). What can cause a heart attack? Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the top reason for heart attacks. It's a condition where the main blood vessels (coronary arteries) that feed the heart muscle get blocked by a buildup of fatty deposits, called plaques. Before a heart attack happens, one of these plaques can burst (rupture), leading to a blood clot forming at the rupture site. This clot can obstruct blood flow to the heart, which can cause a heart attack. There are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of having a heart attack (or having another heart attack): smokers should quit smoking lose weight if you're overweight or obese do regular exercise – adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week, unless advised otherwise by the doctor in charge of your care eat a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including wholegrains and at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day moderate your alcohol consumption What is autonomic dysfunction? Autonomic dysfunction, or dysautonomia, is a condition where the autonomic nervous system (ANS) doesn't function properly. This system is responsible for managing automatic bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. When the ANS is not working right, it can cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms can differ greatly based on which part of the ANS is impacted and what the root cause is. Some typical symptoms are: Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting (syncope), fluctuating heart rate, chest pain, and changes in blood pressure. Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, and stomach pain. Difficulty with bladder control, urinary retention, or frequent urination. Excessive sweating, or lack of sweating, and problems maintaining body temperature. Fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes (difficulty concentrating, memory problems), and visual disturbances. What causes autonomic dysfunction? Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes affect the ANS. Viral infections like COVID-19 can trigger dysautonomia in some people, according to the University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Conditions like Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, and diabetic neuropathy can affect the ANS. Certain medications can have side effects that impact the ANS. Some rare genetic conditions can cause autonomic dysfunction. When was Ozzy Osbourne diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease? Osbourne found out he had Parkinson's disease in February 2019. He shared the news with everyone in January 2020, following a year of dealing with speculation about his health. The three primary symptoms include involuntary shaking, slow movements, and muscles that are stiff and inflexible. People with Parkinson's may also face a variety of other physical and mental symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, issues with balance, a diminished sense of smell, sleep disturbances, and memory challenges. Parkinson's disease results from the loss of nerve cells in a specific area of the brain known as the substantia nigra. The exact cause remains uncertain, but most specialists believe it stems from a mix of genetic and environmental influences. While there is no definitive cure at this time, treatments like medication and physiotherapy can alleviate the primary symptoms. Thanks to advancements in treatment, many people with Parkinson's can now expect a normal or nearly normal life span.
Rhyl Journal
26 minutes ago
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Ozzy Osbourne exhibition at Birmingham museum extended after public demand
The 76-year-old Black Sabbath frontman, who had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019, died July 22, reportedly of a heart attack. Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero was opened by Osbourne's wife Sharon on June 25 to coincide with the band's homecoming farewell concert at Villa Park on July 5. A post shared by Birmingham Museums (@birmingham_mag) Following his death, the museum hosted a civic book of condolence which closed on August 3 and will be presented to his family. The free exhibition showcases Osbourne's honours including Grammys, MTV awards and Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame accolades. Zak Mensah and Sara Wajid, co-chief executives of Birmingham Museums Trust, said: 'We are delighted to announce the extension of Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero to the end of the year. 'The public response to the exhibition has been overwhelming so far, demonstrating the love and affection for Ozzy from the people of Birmingham and beyond. 'We would like to extend our gratitude to Sharon and the rest of the Osbourne family for allowing us to continue to display this exhibition as a fitting tribute to Ozzy's life and legacy and to enable as many fans as possible to come and visit.' Sam Watson, chairwoman of Central Bid Birmingham, which supports businesses in the city, said: 'Central Bid is extremely proud as curator and sponsor of the exhibition, which gives fans the chance to connect with the life and legacy of someone who never forgot where he came from. 'The response from the public has been phenomenal, and it's only right that the exhibition continues so even more people can pay tribute to Ozzy's extraordinary life.' Osbourne died just over two weeks after Black Sabbath were reunited barely two miles from where they first played together more than 50 years ago. The Back to the Beginning benefit concert saw performances from the likes of Anthrax, Metallica, Yungblud and Guns N' Roses. Osbourne and his Black Sabbath bandmates – Terence 'Geezer' Butler, Tony Iommi and Bill Ward, were the last to appear on stage as part of the star-studded line-up. The group who formed in 1968 and were known for songs including War Pigs and Paranoid, were recently given the freedom of the city of Birmingham, which recognises people's exceptional service to the city. Osbourne, who also had a successful solo career, found a new legion of fans when he appeared in the 2000s reality TV series The Osbournes, starring alongside his wife Sharon and two youngest children, Kelly and Jack. On Monday, Kelly thanked fans for their 'support' days after the family joined the people of Birmingham in bidding farewell to the heavy metal vocalist in a procession that stopped at the Black Sabbath bench, which was covered in floral tributes and balloons. Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero, which was originally due to end on September 28, will now run until the end of 2025.
