Ozzy Osbourne was remembered at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards with an emotional performance led by Aerosmith icons Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, joined by Yungblud and guitarist Nuno Bettencourt.
The Prince of Darkness, who died in July aged 76, was celebrated with a medley of his greatest hits at New York’s UBS Arena, introduced by a heartfelt video message from his family.
In the tribute clip, his son Jack Osbourne appeared alongside daughters Pearl, Andy, Minnie and Maple.
“I wish we could be there with you all tonight as you celebrate my dad's amazing musical journey,” Jack said while sitting alongside his daughters.
“I know for sure it would make him incredibly happy to see these great musicians carry on his legacy and help inspire the next generation of rockers.”
In addition to thanking the tribute's performers, he added: “We love you, dad.”
The video ended with his granddaughters signing off together: “In the words of our Papa, let's go crazy!”
Taking to the stage, Tyler, 77, delivered vocals on Mama, I’m Coming Home despite suffering a fractured larynx and damaged vocal cords during Aerosmith’s Peace Out tour in 2023.
His appearance alongside Yungblud drew one of the night’s loudest ovations.
@consequence Jack Osbourne and his family introduce the VMA's tribute to his father, Ozzy Osbourne. Courtesy of MTV/CBS. #jackosbourne #ozzyosbourne #vmas #vmas2025
♬ original sound - consequence - consequence
The supergroup also powered through classics including Crazy Train and Changes.
Yungblud, who had performed with Osbourne only weeks before his death, paid his own tribute ahead of the show.
Sharing a black-and-white photo of the pair, he wrote: “They’ve asked me to pay tribute to you at the @vmas on Sunday night. I’ll try my best to do you proud Oz. Tune in from up there. I love you forever.”
Following the performance, fans raved online about the tribute, with one describing it on YouTube as: “Coolest thing to happen on VMAs in the last 25 years.”
“Now THAT was a proper tribute,” another wrote.
A third commented: “EVERYTHING about this performance, Steven’s voice and spirit still giving it all, also YB pulling out all the cards, and the way you can see Steven getting emotional at the very end when he flicks his hand and covers his face with it.
“Respect, perfect tribute, perfect soulful, fiery performance all those involved!!”
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