Legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne has opened up about the emotional and physical toll of living with Parkinson’s disease as he prepares for a final performance with Black Sabbath. The 76-year-old icon, often called the “Prince of Darkness,” is gearing up for a one-time reunion show with his former bandmates, despite ongoing health struggles that have impacted his mobility and mental health.
Battling More Than Just a Diagnosis
Osbourne first revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis publicly in 2020, though he had been living with the condition for some time before that. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, he reflected on the day-to-day unpredictability of the disease. “You wake up the next morning and find that something else has gone wrong,” he shared. “You begin to think this is never going to end.”
This emotional spiral, he admitted, has taken a toll on his mental health. The uncertainty of Parkinson’s—combined with a series of medical setbacks—left Ozzy feeling lost. However, it was Sharon Osbourne, his wife and longtime manager, who helped him find a reason to fight again by organising a final performance.
A Farewell to Fans, Not Just a Gig
Slated for July, the upcoming show marks the first time in two decades that Ozzy will perform with Black Sabbath. Though the performance will only feature a handful of songs, the symbolic weight of the reunion is massive—for both Osbourne and his fans.
“We’re only playing a couple of songs each,” he clarified. “I don’t want people thinking they’re being short-changed. It’s more of a tribute, a taste of what we once were.” The event also has a deeper purpose: proceeds will go toward Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice. It’s a way for Osbourne to give back, even as he battles the condition that threatens to end his career.
Training Through the Pain
Despite having undergone multiple surgeries and experiencing muscle loss from extended periods of immobility, Osbourne is currently undergoing rigorous training to prepare for the show. “It’s tough,” he admitted. “I’ve been lying on my back doing nothing, and the first thing to go is your strength.”
Now, with the help of a live-in trainer, he’s doing weight training, cycling, and intensive vocal coaching four times a week to build up his endurance. However, the physical limitations are undeniable. “I have problems walking,” he revealed. “I also get blood pressure issues from blood clots in my legs. I’m used to jumping and running around on stage for two hours—I don’t think I’ll be doing that this time. I may be sitting down.”
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Bandmates and Fans Rally Behind Him
While fans are eagerly anticipating the performance, Osbourne and his bandmates are managing expectations. Maynard James Keenan, a fellow performer, acknowledged the uphill battle Ozzy faces: “I’m honoured to be part of this, but I’m preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.” Still, Ozzy remains committed to giving everything he can. “All I can do is turn up,” he said with raw honesty. “I’ll do the best that I can.”
More Than Just Music
For Osbourne, this concert is more than a musical event—it’s a deeply personal milestone. It’s his way of proving that even in the face of debilitating illness, the spirit of rock and resilience endures. His story stands as a powerful reminder that while the body may weaken, passion and purpose can keep the flame burning.
As fans gear up for what could be the final bow of one of rock’s most iconic figures, one thing is certain: Ozzy Osbourne isn’t going out quietly.