On July 5, 2025, Ozzy Osbourne made his final appearance on stage, marking an emotional chapter in rock history. The performance at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, was a culmination of decades of groundbreaking music and unforgettable moments. Despite his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s disease, Ozzy delivered a heartwarming, powerful show that resonated deeply with his fans.
A Grand Farewell with Black Sabbath
Ozzy, accompanied by his Black Sabbath bandmates—Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward—took fans on a nostalgic journey through the band’s most iconic hits, including “Paranoid” and “Iron Man.” The fact that Ozzy, unable to stand or walk without assistance, still sat in a throne adorned with a bat was a poignant symbol of his resilience. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a victory lap for a man who had defied both health and time to give his all.
A Night of Gratitude and Tribute
The “Back to the Beginning” concert wasn’t only about Black Sabbath’s legendary performance—it was an 11-hour celebration of rock. Major artists like Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Tool paid tribute to Ozzy, honoring the man who helped shape their own musical careers. Messages from icons like Elton John and Dolly Parton flooded in, reminding Ozzy of the indelible mark he had left on the music world.
As the final notes of “Crazy Train” echoed through the stadium, Ozzy took a moment to thank his fans: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’re the best, each and every one of you.” The words, simple yet filled with emotion, captured the essence of the night—a deep connection between Ozzy and the generations who grew up with his music.
A Legacy Filmed for Eternity
The farewell concert was filmed for Back to the Beginning: Ozzy’s Final Bow, a documentary that will be released in 2026. This 100-minute film will offer fans a chance to relive Ozzy’s final performance. It will stand as a lasting testament to his career and the undeniable influence he had on the rock and metal genres.
Reflecting on a Storied Career
Just before his passing, Ozzy made one last social media post—an image from the final Black Sabbath show. The picture, which showed young versions of the band members, spoke volumes about Ozzy’s deep connection to his roots. It was an unspoken tribute to a career that started in Birmingham, where it all began.
Ozzy also had plans to release Last Rites, a memoir reflecting on his life since his Parkinson’s diagnosis. In an excerpt, he expressed gratitude for his journey: “Look, if it ends tomorrow, I can’t complain. I’ve been all around the world. Seen a lot of things. I’ve done good … and I’ve done bad. But right now, I’m not ready to go anywhere.”
The Final Performance: A Testament to His Spirit
Ozzy’s final concert was more than just a musical performance—it was a declaration of his unyielding spirit. Despite the challenges of his illness, Ozzy’s passion for music never faltered. His performance, even from a seated position, reminded fans that music isn’t just about the body, but the soul. It was a perfect farewell from a man who had dedicated his life to entertaining and inspiring millions.
Ozzy Osbourne’s final show in Birmingham was a fitting end to a legendary career, leaving fans with memories that will last a lifetime. While he may no longer be physically with us, his music, humor, and impact will live on forever.
