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Birmingham Bids Farewell to the Prince of Darkness
Last night, Ozzy Osbourne, the 76-year-old Prince of Darkness, took his final bow at a monumental concert in his hometown of Birmingham. The sold-out “Back to the Beginning” festival at Villa Park marked the end of an era for the legendary rocker and his band, Black Sabbath.
Daughter Kelly Osbourne, watching from the stage, was visibly moved by the outpouring of support from fans who travelled from across the globe. Today, she shared her gratitude on social media, thanking everyone involved and calling the experience “one of the most magical” of her life.
Though restricted to a chair due to ongoing health issues, Ozzy delivered a powerful and unforgettable performance, punctuated by heartfelt thanks to the audience and his signature fiery spirit. The emotional farewell culminated in a spectacular fireworks display as the metal icon exited the stage.
The day-long festival featured a star-studded lineup of heavy metal giants, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Slayer, along with a special all-star supergroup. Tributes poured in from around the world, including a touching message from Sir Elton John, who hailed Osbourne as “one of the most remarkable singers of our time.”
Fans also shared personal video messages, thanking the band for their pioneering role in shaping heavy metal music. The event served as a fitting tribute to Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s enduring legacy and their profound impact on generations of music fans.