Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler has opened up about the heartbreaking state of Ozzy Osbourne’s health during what would become the legendary rocker's final performance, just two weeks before his death at age 76.
Known to millions as the “Prince of Darkness,” Osbourne passed away peacefully on July 22 at his Buckinghamshire home, surrounded by loved ones.
Although fans were aware of his long-term health battles, few realised how much he was struggling behind the scenes of his farewell concert.
In recent years, Osbourne had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, undergone major spinal surgery following a fall, and battled a severe staph infection. He also suffered from respiratory complications that left him in and out of hospital, and his mobility had become increasingly limited.
Speaking to The Times, 76-year-old Butler, who was one of the founding members of the iconic band, revealed the shocking reality of Osbourne’s condition during rehearsals for the show. “I knew he wasn't in good health, but I wasn't prepared to see how frail he was,” Butler admitted.
“He was helped into the rehearsal room by two helpers and a nurse and was using a cane. Being Ozzy, the cane was black and studded with gold and precious stones,” he added.
Despite being warned by insurers that the event wouldn’t be covered if he insisted on standing, Osbourne remained determined to go ahead. Refusing to disappoint, he took to the stage seated on a black throne and delivered five powerful songs in front of 42,000 fans packed into Villa Park.
Butler also shared his personal regret at not spending more time with Osbourne backstage before what would be their final performance together. “I wish I'd had more time with him, but wishes are redundant now,” he said.
Quoting one of Osbourne’s favourite sayings, Butler added poignantly, “As Ozzy used to say, ‘Wish in one hand and s**t in the other and see which comes first.’”
There are now growing concerns for Osbourne’s wife Sharon, who is said to be “very, very frail” following the loss of her “soulmate.”
The couple met in 1979 when her father was managing Black Sabbath, and they married four years later in 1982. Their nearly 40 year marriage was marked by deep love and public struggles, with Sharon standing by the Crazy Train hitmaker through countless personal battles.
It is believed she may choose to bury Ozzy privately in the garden of their sprawling 350 acre estate.
“She is very, very fragile. We’re all terrified about how she will manage in the coming weeks,” a source told MailOnline. “Sharon is being supported by loved ones, but the heartbreak is immense.
“It’s a lovely house and Sharon wanted to bring him back from LA. I don’t know if she will feel strong enough to have a big memorial for all the people who want to say goodbye to him. We think she may want to bury him privately at home, in the garden.”
