Heavy metal legend and reality TV star Ozzy Osbourne has died at age 76, according to a statement from his family.
“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,” the statement read.
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“He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
Born John Michael Osbourne in England in 1948, he was a founding member of Black Sabbath, a band which influenced heavy metal music around the world, before leaving the group in 1979 due to issues with substance abuse. He later embarked on a successful solo career, and reunited with his former band on several occasions, most recently to perform a farewell concert on July 5.
Over his lengthy career, Osbourne sold more than 100 million albums, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice – first in 2006 and again with Black Sabbath in 2024.
Osbourne, who was nicknamed the Prince of Darkness, was well known for biting the head off a bat during a concert in Iowa in 1982, and for appearing in his reality TV series The Osbournes, alongside his wife and manager Sharon and two of his six children, Jack and Kelly.
He also made several appearances in Hollywood films and popular TV shows including CSI and South Park, usually playing himself.
More to come.