Celine Dion is the latest music icon to pay her respects following the death of heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on July 22 at age 76. The Black Sabbath frontman died surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement from his family, after a long battle with health issues, including Parkinson’s disease, which he publicly revealed in 2020.
Celine Dion’s Moving Tribute To Ozzy
(Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for The Recording Academy )In a touching message shared on social media, Dion reflected on her years alongside Ozzy as labelmates and praised his artistry, spirit, and kindness. “I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ozzy Osbourne,” she wrote.
“Ozzy and I were label mates for many years – and although we came from very different musical universes, I always admired his boundless spirit and ear for melody on songs like ‘Mama, I’m Coming Home.’ He was a true original! Fearless, and simply larger than life… but also kind, thoughtful and generous.”
Fans Flocked to Birmingham for Public Farewell
(Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)On July 30, thousands of fans gathered in Birmingham, England, for a public funeral procession honoring the Prince of Darkness. The cortege traveled down Broad Street, past landmarks such as the Black Sabbath bridge, as mourners lined the sidewalks singing his name.
A brass band played emotional renditions of “Iron Man” and “Crazy Train” as Ozzy’s wife, Sharon Osbourne, and children, Jack, Kelly, and Aimee, accompanied the hearse. Sharon was seen holding Ozzy’s wedding ring on a chain, while Kelly wore her father’s signature purple-tinted sunglasses.
Ozzy’s Final Performance to Be Immortalized
Just weeks before his passing, Ozzy performed his final live show on July 5 in Birmingham at the Back to the Beginning farewell concert. It was a combined solo and Black Sabbath tribute. That performance will be featured in a forthcoming concert film from Mercury Studios, set to release in 2026.
Proceeds from the event will benefit charities including Cure Parkinson’s and Birmingham Children’s Hospital, continuing Osbourne’s legacy of giving back.
Rock Legends Gather for Private Ceremony in Buckinghamshire
Following the public tribute, Ozzy was laid to rest during an intimate ceremony on the grounds of his 250-acre Buckinghamshire estate. It fulfilled his wish to be buried near the lake on his property.
A striking floral arrangement beside the water read: “OZZY F—ING OSBOURNE,” according to The Daily Mail. Among those in attendance were longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde, Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Metallica’s James Hetfield, and Sir Elton John. The private gathering was a heartfelt sendoff for one of rock’s most influential voices.
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‘He Was a True Original’: Celine Dion Celebrates Ozzy Osbourne’s Life With Moving Tribute