He was born John Michael Osbourne in the Aston area of Birmingham on 3 December 1948. His father Jack was a toolmaker, while his mother Lillian worked at the Lucas factory, which made car components.
He picked up the nickname Ozzy at primary school and it stuck.
The music world mourns Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath icon dies aged 76.
In a statement issued on social media, Osbourne’s family said: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
No cause of death was given, though Osbourne was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2019. The passing of the metal superstar arrives just weeks after Ozzy – both as a solo artist and with Black Sabbath – made his final ever live performance for the epic, critically acclaimed Back To The Beginning farewell concert in Birmingham.
Even had he not played such a decisive role in the genre’s creation, no one embodied heavy metal more than Ozzy Osbourne.
In a statement to TMZ, the Osbourne family says Ozzy died Tuesday "surrounded by love." The cause of death is unclear.
The Osbournes say ... "It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning."
Ozzy's family continues ... "He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time."
Posting on Instagram, Sir Rod Stewart said: "Sleep well, my friend. I'll see you up there - later rather than sooner."
Queen guitarist Sir Brian May said he was "grateful I was able to have a few quiet words" with Osbourne after his farewell show at Villa Park three weeks ago.
He said the world will miss the singer's "unique presence and fearless talent".
Rock band Def Leppard, who toured alongside Osbourne in 1981, said both he and his wife Sharon were "SO supportive".
"He always had time for a chat, took us under his wing & showed us how & how not to party," the band said.
Mike McCready, lead guitarist and founding member of American band Pearl Jam, said Osbourne's voice "took me away to a dark universe".
"Thanks for the music, Ozzy it makes our journey in life better."
