Ozzy Osbourne has candidly shared that he is currently experiencing significant mobility challenges, stating that he “can’t walk.” Despite these difficulties, he expresses profound gratitude for still being alive as he gears up for a monumental moment: his final performance at Black Sabbath’s highly anticipated reunion show. This event, titled “Back to the Beginning,” is scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park, located in Birmingham, England, the band’s hometown. This performance will signify a remarkable reunion of the original Black Sabbath lineup?Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward?after a two-decade hiatus. Furthermore, it will mark Osbourne’s first full performance since 2018, accompanied by an impressive lineup featuring renowned acts like Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and many others.
During a recent episode of his SiriusXM radio show, Osbourne opened up about his health struggles after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked, “I have made it to 2025. I can’t walk, but you know what I was thinking over the holidays? For all my complaining, I’m still alive.” This poignant sentiment highlights his resilience, as he acknowledges that despite his struggles, he is fortunate compared to others who have faced greater hardships and have not survived. Osbourne’s introspection serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude in the face of adversity.
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The legendary Prince of Darkness, in a 2023 interview with Rolling Stone UK, proclaimed that if he were to return to the stage, he would not do so in a manner that invites pity. “I’m not going up there in a fucking wheelchair,” he asserted, emphasizing his determination to deliver an authentic performance. His fierce attitude underscores his commitment to maintaining his legendary stage presence, regardless of his physical limitations.
His wife, Sharon Osbourne, has been a steadfast supporter during these challenging times, sharing her belief that Ozzy’s physical struggles do not diminish his vocal abilities. “He’s very happy to be coming back and very emotional about this,” she stated in an interview with The Sun. She elaborated on the nature of Parkinson’s disease, noting that it is progressive and affects various parts of the body, particularly his legs. However, she confidently declared, “his voice is as good as it’s ever been,” highlighting Ozzy’s enduring talent and passion for music.
In a heartfelt moment during the same conversation, Tony Iommi reflected on the emotional weight of the upcoming performance. He expressed that this reunion would signify “the end of an end,” given their long-standing relationships both personally and professionally. Iommi’s sentiments echo the significance of this concert as a fitting tribute to their shared legacy, marking an essential chapter in the history of heavy metal music.
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Gallery Credit: Joe DiVita
