Ozzy Osbourne was aware of his impending death during his final performance with Black Sabbath on July 5, 2025, as revealed by his friend and musical director Tom Morello in a recent interview. This concert served as a heartfelt farewell to fans before his passing on July 22, highlighting his determination to inspire others despite his frailty.
Who was involved? The key figures include Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, who passed away at age 76; Tom Morello, the guitarist of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, who served as musical director for the concert; and Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife, who helped organize the event. Other participants included former Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler, as well as various guest artists and family members.
What happened? Ozzy Osbourne knowingly performed his final concert with Black Sabbath on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, despite being aware that he was dying. Tom Morello disclosed in an interview on Chicago’s Q101 radio that Ozzy had been frail but intended the concert to be a grand farewell, performing songs like ‘Paranoid’ and ‘Crazy Train’ while seated on a throne due to his health issues.
When did it occur? The final Black Sabbath concert took place on July 5, 2025. Ozzy Osbourne died on July 22, 2025, and Tom Morello’s revealing interview was broadcast recently, with articles published on August 21-22, 2025, bringing this insight to public attention within the last 24 hours.
Where did it happen? The event occurred at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, Ozzy’s hometown, which held significance as the location for his last performance. The interview with Morello was conducted on Q101 radio in Chicago, but the news has been disseminated globally through various media outlets.
Why did it happen? Ozzy Osbourne wanted to bow out on a high note and create a memorable experience for his fans, embodying his message to ‘never give up.’ Despite his health struggles, including Parkinson’s disease and recent surgeries, he aimed to leave a positive legacy and celebrate his music career with a final, impactful show organized by Morello to be ‘the greatest day in the history of heavy metal.’
How did it unfold? Tom Morello was appointed musical director by Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne to orchestrate the benefit concert, which featured Ozzy performing five solo songs seated and four with Black Sabbath. The event was emotionally charged, with Ozzy appearing frail but determined, and it was streamed globally, allowing fans worldwide to participate. Morello described it as a ‘spiritually great moment’ despite the underlying sadness of Ozzy’s condition.
What is the impact? Ozzy Osbourne’s death and the revelation of his awareness during his final show have led to global mourning among fans and the music community, reinforcing his status as a heavy metal icon. His passing has sparked tributes, increased streaming of his music, and highlighted his influence on generations of artists. The concert itself, reportedly earning significant revenue, also benefited his hometown economically and symbolically.
What’s next? Ozzy Osbourne was laid to rest in a private ceremony near his home in Buckinghamshire on July 31, 2025, with family and close friends in attendance. His legacy continues through his music, with ongoing commemorations and potential future tributes or documentaries. The news of his final moments may inspire further reflections on his life and career in the entertainment industry.