Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Prince of Darkness, has had a life as tumultuous and electrifying as his music. Known for his iconic performances with Black Sabbath and his solo career, Ozzy’s life has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Despite numerous health challenges and even falling victim to death hoaxes, Ozzy Osbourne is very much alive and continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Ozzy Osbourne on Facing Mortality
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone UK, the 74-year-old rocker opened up about his current views on death and his remaining time. “I said to [wife] Sharon [Osbourne] that I’d smoked a joint recently and she said, ‘What are you doing that for! It’ll f—ing kill you!’
I said, ‘How long do you want me to f—ing live for?!’” Ozzy remarked. Reflecting on his mortality, he speculated that he might have around ten years left. Time seems to move faster as he ages, especially after celebrating his 41st wedding anniversary with Sharon.
Reflecting on Loss and Survival
Ozzy also discussed the haunting reality of outliving many of his friends and drinking partners. “I should have been dead way before loads of them,” he admitted. “Why am I the last man standing? I don’t understand any of it.” His numerous close calls with death, including having his stomach pumped countless times, make his survival even more astonishing. Yet, Ozzy doesn’t boast about his endurance, acknowledging that he has narrowly escaped death multiple times.
Living Without the Fear of Death
Interestingly, Ozzy Osbourne doesn’t fear dying. “But I don’t want to have a long, painful, and miserable existence,” he stated. He supports the idea of assisted death for terminally ill patients, influenced by his father’s painful battle with cancer. This perspective reveals Ozzy’s desire for a dignified end, rather than prolonged suffering.
Health Struggles and Retirement from Touring
In February, Ozzy announced the cancellation of all upcoming performances due to a severe spinal injury. This decision marked one of the hardest moments in his career. After a fall in 2019, he aggravated existing neck and back injuries from an ATV accident 16 years prior. Subsequent surgeries, combined with a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, have made performing increasingly difficult. Despite these setbacks, Ozzy remains hopeful about returning to the stage if possible, though he now takes life one day at a time.
Acceptance and Moving Forward
Ozzy’s journey has also been about acceptance. Initially furious about his health issues and the resulting end of his touring career, he has gradually come to terms with his situation. “I’m not going to get up there and do a half-hearted Ozzy looking for sympathy. What’s the f—ing point in that? I’m not going up there in a f—ing wheelchair,” he declared. This determination to maintain his integrity as a performer underscores his commitment to his craft and his fans.
The Desire for a Final Goodbye
One of Ozzy’s deepest regrets is not being able to say goodbye to his fans in person. “They write to me, they know all about my dogs. It’s my extended family really, and they give us the lifestyle we have,” he explained. Ozzy dreams of performing one last show, perhaps at Ozzfest or the Roundhouse, to thank his fans. “If I drop down dead at the end of it, I’ll die a happy man,” he said.
The End of The Osbournes
While Ozzy hopes for a final concert, a return of the MTV reality show “The Osbournes” is off the table. During an episode of The Osbournes Podcast, Ozzy, Sharon, and their children Jack and Kelly agreed that the series, which ran for four seasons until 2005, will not make a comeback. “It won’t happen again. Never in a million years,” Ozzy insisted.
The Impact of Death Hoaxes
In May 2023, Ozzy Osbourne was the target of an online death hoax. A fake Facebook page claimed that the rocker had passed away, causing a flurry of condolence messages and confusion among fans. However, this rumor was swiftly debunked. Ozzy is alive and living with his wife Sharon in Los Angeles. His representatives confirmed his well-being and urged fans to disregard such misinformation.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Legacy
Ozzy Osbourne’s career, which began with the groundbreaking heavy metal band Black Sabbath, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. He has won Grammy Awards both solo and with the band, and his theatrical performances, like biting a bat’s head on stage, have become legendary. Despite his health issues, Ozzy’s spirit remains unbroken, and he continues to influence and inspire musicians and fans alike.
Ozzy Osbourne’s journey is a testament to resilience and the enduring power of music. His ability to face death with a fearless attitude and his unwavering connection with his fans highlight his unique legacy. Despite the challenges, Ozzy’s spirit and influence continue to shine brightly, proving that the Prince of Darkness is very much alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ozzy Osbourne still alive?
Yes, Ozzy Osbourne is still alive. Despite health challenges and death hoaxes, he continues to live in Los Angeles with his wife, Sharon Osbourne.
What health issues has Ozzy Osbourne faced?
Ozzy has faced numerous health issues, including a spinal injury from a fall, multiple surgeries, and a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.
Will Ozzy Osbourne perform again?
Ozzy hopes to perform again if his health allows. He dreams of doing at least one more show to thank his fans for their support.
Why was there a rumor about Ozzy Osbourne’s death?
A fake Facebook page spread a death hoax about Ozzy in May 2023. His representatives confirmed that he is alive and well, debunking the rumor.
Will “The Osbournes” reality show return?
No, Ozzy and his family have stated that the reality show will not make a comeback. They are content with their current lives and have no plans to revive the series.