After enduring years of persistent health challenges, it has now been unequivocally affirmed that the legendary Black Sabbath vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne, will not embark on another tour. The heavy metal icon, who had previously sparked concerns about his future on stage after undergoing additional spinal surgery last November, disclosed the chronic nature of the injury that initially manifested in a quad bike accident back in 2003. The condition was further exacerbated by a significant fall in 2019.
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Osbourne expressed his hope for a return to the stage but acknowledged the possibility of having to come to terms with the stark reality that it might not materialize. “I’m taking it one day at a time, and if I can perform again, I will,” he shared. The gravity of the situation became evident as he likened the experience to bidding farewell to the most significant relationship in his life. Initially, frustration and resentment towards himself, the medical professionals, and the world characterized his reaction to ceasing touring. However, with time, he adopted a more accepting stance.
“I’m not going to get up there and do a half-hearted Ozzy looking for sympathy,” he asserted. “What’s the f****** point in that? I’m not going up there in a fucking wheelchair.” Osbourne drew inspiration from witnessing Phil Collins, who faces similar physical challenges, performing from a wheelchair. Nevertheless, he found the prospect unappealing.
In a recent update, Osbourne’s wife, Sharon, has definitively confirmed that her husband will never undertake another tour. However, she revealed plans for two final farewell shows as a gesture of appreciation to his global fanbase. During her live show at London’s The Fortune Theatre on January 21st, Sharon disclosed, “He won’t tour again, but we are planning on doing two more shows to say goodbye as he feels like, ‘I have never said goodbye to my fans, and I want to say goodbye.'”
Despite the health challenges, Sharon emphasized that Osbourne’s voice remains “absolutely perfect.” She revealed that during his time off, he diligently continued with singing lessons. “Even if you don’t like his music, you can’t not like Ozzy,” she added with admiration.
Offering a glimpse into the potential venue for at least one of the farewell gigs, Sharon mentioned, “We will do it in Aston Villa, where Ozzy is from.”
The prospect of witnessing Ozzy Osbourne’s final performances looms large for fans who have followed his illustrious career, marking the end of an era in the realm of heavy metal.