The Passing Of Ozzy Osbourne: One Month Later

(image via The Hollywood Reporter)

Heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, real name John Michael Osbourne, passed away on July 22, 2025, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease, leaving behind a mighty legacy in pop culture history. Here’s what students and staff around WGHS had to say about it.
​by Emery Brown and DaNija Thomas

Mrs. Boyett, the art teacher here at WGHS, has a long history of admiration for the late singer. “He was the first band I ever saw. I was 11 years old and he was opening for Iron Maiden at the Hammersmith Odeon in London, 1983. I wasn't even meant to go to that concert, but due to a strange turn of events, there I was. I was mind-blown by his stage presence, his energy, and the way he interacted with the fans. It is a memory I will never forget; his passing made me reflect on that experience, and it suddenly felt like a lifetime ago.”

After finding out via social media, she was hit with waves of shock, sadness, and nostalgia, having been very familiar with Ozzy and his work as she was in her twenties during the height of Ozzy’s career.

Additionally, she expresses admiration for his wife, Sharon Osbourne, “...[I] thought her to be a strong woman. Seeing her looking so frail and devastated in Birmingham was hard to see.”
Finally, Boyett closes with a statement on his legacy, “I think many bands and artists look up to Ozzy and were influenced by him. The people that came out in support of his farewell concert pays testament to the influence he spread.”

Lily Peck, a junior, was saddened by Osbourne’s passing. “It happened a little bit ago, but it still deeply affects the music community,” she stated. She, too, initially learned of his passing from social media. Having to confirm it for herself, she turned to Google, crying when the truth was revealed. “I listened to a lot of his music. I grew up with it,” she says, reminiscing on her love for the singer. “It’s what my dad listened to, and he passed it on to me.” Looking back on Osbourne’s legacy, Lily states, “Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne himself influenced so many bands, so it’s definitely had a hurtful impact.”

Quantavious Boyce, a senior, gives his thoughts on Osbourne’s passing. “It was pretty sad. He was pretty cool, and I liked some of his music.” Like Mrs. Boyett and Lily, he too learned about the tragic loss through social media. “I was like, ‘What the heck? Oh no!’ and then I shed a tear.” Quantavious wasn’t very familiar with Ozzy before, but grew to appreciate him and his music more after his death. “He has some pretty good music. You’ve got to listen to his music, like, musically.”

Osbourne would part ways with the public at his Back to the Beginning charity concert on July 5, 2025, which featured dozens of rock and roll icons and celebrities. The concert marked the final performance of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, playing in their hometown of Birmingham, England. The concert went on to raise over $190 million for various charities, making it the highest-grossing charity concert of all time (Billboard).

The night of the concert, Osbourne said to his wife, Sharon, “I had no idea that so many people liked me” (E! News). Ozzy left an incredible legacy, spawning a massive and passionate fanbase. As tragic as his loss was, the Prince of Darkness will forever be remembered for his musical genius and soulful personality.