Billy Idol believes Ozzy Osbourne 'went out his way'
The Black Sabbath star passed away on Tuesday (22.07.25) aged 76 just two weeks after he reunited with his bandmates for their massive Back to the Beginning farewell show in their hometown of Birmingham, England - and the rocker's longtime pal Billy has admitted he's still "in shock" over the loss of the Prince of Darkness.
He told The Hollywood Reporter: "I guess he went out his way. I'm still in a little bit of shock because just over two weeks ago, he was on that Back to the Beginning stage in Birmingham.
"I didn't expect this to happen, really. But I suppose that's the way it always is ... Just two weeks ago, he was on that stage having the time of his life. He really seemed to be enjoying himself."
Billy explained he has known Ozzy and his wife Sharon for "a long time" and went on to compare the wild man of rock to late music legend David Bowie.
He added: "He's like David Bowie. Ozzy's always been here as an inspiration for those of us who love music, showing us the way to survive through it all.
"Incredible, really. It's hard to believe that both are dead now. Ozzy was just so alive, he had so much personality … being in the moment and enjoying it. His music was like that as well."
Ozzy's death was confirmed by his family in a statement which read: "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."
It has since been reported that Ozzy passed away at his home in Buckinghamshire, UK and his daughters had flown in from Los Angeles to be with him.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the world, and Ozzy's longtime bandmate Tony Iommi admitted he was completely heartbroken by the news of his friend's death.
In a post on X, Iommi wrote: "I just can't believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park.
"It's just such heartbreaking news that I can't really find the words, there won't ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother. My thoughts go out to [Ozzy's wife] Sharon and all the Osbourne family. Rest in peace Oz.'
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