Sharon Osbourne Reveals Ozzy's Last Advice as Black Sabbath Honors His Memory on Death Anniversary

One year after Ozzy Osbourne's passing, Sharon shares how to remember the Prince of Darkness, while Black Sabbath bandmates pay heartfelt tribute.

Remembering Ozzy: A Year Since the Metal Legend's Farewell

It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since the world lost Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic "Prince of Darkness" who reshaped heavy metal and rock culture forever. On July 22 last year, Ozzy passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that’s as unforgettable as his legendary voice and wild antics.

To honor this milestone, his hometown of Birmingham hosted the first-ever “Ozzy Day” — a celebration packed with fans, music, and heartfelt remembrances. From a brass band playing Black Sabbath classics to the city's famous “Ozzy The Bull” statue donning his trademark round glasses, the atmosphere was electric, fitting for a man who truly embodied the spirit of metal.

Kelly, Sharon, and Jack Osbourne standing amid tributes in Birmingham, Ozzy’s hometown.

Before the day, Ozzy’s son Jack Osbourne encouraged fans to flood the internet with stories about his dad, hoping to "fill the entire day of July 22 with just awesome Ozzy stories." Meanwhile, Kelly Osbourne opened up on the enduring pain of grief, explaining that she mourns not only the father she lost but also the version of herself before his death.

Sharon Osbourne’s Heartwarming Advice: Crank Up the Music and Headbang

If you’re wondering how to keep Ozzy’s spirit alive, Sharon Osbourne has the perfect advice — straight from Ozzy himself. In an intimate chat with the BBC, Sharon shared Ozzy’s final words to her regarding remembrance.

“As Ozzy would say, ‘When you want to remember me, just yank up the music really loud, as loud as you can get it, and just head bang.’”

Can you imagine that? It’s so Ozzy — loud, unapologetic, and full of life. Sharon also fondly recalls his authentic self: “He was so genuine and funny. We could have the worst arguments, but he’d always say something ridiculous that made us laugh until we cracked up.”

It’s no coincidence that “Ozzy Day” takes place in Birmingham, the “home of metal” that perfectly suits the man who helped define the genre. Sharon insists, “It wouldn’t work anywhere else.”

The Final Curtain: Ozzy’s Last Show and Cause of Death

Ozzy’s passing came just two weeks after Black Sabbath’s farewell show at Birmingham’s Villa Park, a massive celebration of metal with appearances from legends like Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Lamb Of God, Tool, Mastodon, Alice In Chains, Guns N’ Roses, Halestorm, Gojira, and more.

It was a historic moment, and thankfully, Ozzy was able to give fans a final hurrah with the original lineup. Sadly, it was later confirmed that his cause of death was a heart attack, closing a chapter on a storied life.

Bandmates Remember Ozzy: Tributes from Black Sabbath

The anniversary also saw moving tributes from Ozzy’s Black Sabbath bandmates, who shared their memories and grief.

Bassist Geezer Butler posted on Instagram:

“One year ago today - hard to believe. I am so glad we were able to do the final show, back in our hometown, just a couple of weeks before Ozzy left us. Gone in body, but his legend lives on. Such incredible memories. Ozzy forever!”

Drummer Bill Ward took to X (formerly Twitter) with a heartfelt message:

“Every day, there is persistent silence. We miss you so much. Respectfully, with love to the Osbourne Family, Bill and Jackie Ward Family.”

— Bill Ward (@billwarddrums) July 22, 2026

Guitarist Tony Iommi also shared his sorrow and fond memories in an Instagram post. He revealed how he still can’t believe Ozzy is gone and how he often watches him on YouTube, feeling as though Ozzy is still present with them. They stayed in touch regularly, trading conversations about their ailments and week-to-week happenings.

Tony summed it up beautifully:

“The fans have been absolutely brilliant and the love and respect that they have shown for him has just been amazing. I’m so glad that we were able to play one final show with the original line up of Sabbath at the ‘Back To The Beginning’ show in our home town of Birmingham. There will never be another Ozzy. I miss you my dear friend.”

Ozzy’s Legacy: Charity and Posthumous Honors

Beyond music, Sharon Osbourne highlighted the philanthropic spirit Ozzy carried in the final show’s aftermath. That concert raised millions for Cure Parkinson’s, Acorns Children’s Hospice, and Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s charity — causes very close to Ozzy’s heart.

Sharon noted:

“We will continue that until we find a cure for Parkinson’s, because people don’t realize it’s more and more prevalent. He was just a real bloke, a really good bloke with a big heart and he wanted to give back.”

Ozzy’s influence has been recognized far and wide. He received a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award at the BRITs 2026, as well as Birmingham’s prestigious Lord Mayor’s Award last December, further cementing his legendary status.

A New Chapter: Ozzy’s AI Avatar and Family’s Support

In a fascinating twist, Sharon addressed a recent project creating an AI avatar of Ozzy. Despite some critics labeling it a “cash grab,” Sharon was quick to shut down those accusations, asserting she “doesn’t need your [expletive] money.”

Jack Osbourne, Ozzy’s son, also chimed in on the avatar project, assuring fans that it would be “tasteful” and “not lame.” He believes that Ozzy “would be into this,” emphasizing that the family is honoring his memory with respect and care.

A Lasting Tribute to The Prince of Darkness

It’s clear that Ozzy Osbourne’s spirit continues to resonate deeply — through music, memories, and ongoing charity efforts. From his family’s loving words to the heartfelt tributes from Black Sabbath bandmates, the legend of Ozzy is far from fading.

So, next time you want to feel Ozzy with you, just follow his advice: crank up that volume and headbang like there’s no tomorrow.

FAQ

• How did Ozzy Osbourne suggest people remember him?
  He advised his loved ones to play music as loud as possible and headbang to keep his spirit alive.
• What was the cause of Ozzy Osbourne’s death?
  Ozzy passed away from a heart attack.
• What was special about Black Sabbath’s final show?
  It was held in Birmingham with the original lineup and featured appearances by many legendary metal bands.
• What charitable efforts were connected to Ozzy’s final show?
  The show raised millions for Cure Parkinson’s, Acorns Children’s Hospice, and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
• What is the controversy surrounding Ozzy’s AI avatar?
  Some fans called it a “cash grab,” but Sharon and Jack Osbourne defended the project as a tasteful tribute Ozzy would have supported.

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