Ozzy Osbourne’s death at 76 has prompted an emotional and wide-ranging response from Independent readers, many of whom grew up with his music and larger-than-life persona.
Several commenters expressed disbelief that the “Prince of Darkness” had passed away after years of ill health and wild living that made him seem almost immortal.
“I never actually expected him to die yet,” one fan wrote, echoing the shock felt by many.
Others focused on his legacy as a pioneer of heavy metal and an irreplaceable force in music. “There will never be another Ozzy,” wrote one, while another described him as “the founder of a musical genre… from humble beginnings to near deification.”
A sense of personal connection also ran through the tributes, with fans sharing memories of concerts, favourite songs, and even brief encounters with the star. “Your secrets are safe with us, Ozzy,” one commenter said. “We’ll miss you like crazy.”
Despite controversy throughout his life, many reflected on the complexity of Osbourne’s disposition – a mix of talent, chaos, humour and vulnerability. “He was a real character,” one noted.
Here are some of our favourite tributes:
I've always loved Iron Man
Wow. As an ironworker, I've always loved Iron Man.
But I’ve got to say, I had a hard time wearing boots in the 70s because of Fairies Wear Boots. And I liked my boots!
Godspeed, Ozzy. I hope you made your peace with Jesus before you went. I’m believing you did. See you on the other side.
showme
What are your favourite memories of Ozzy? Share your tribute in the comments below.
One of the legends of rock
One of my last heroes alive is now sadly appearing in heaven. RIP Ozzy, always will be one of the legends of rock. I was lucky to see him in Leicester, and he was epic.
Slightly Tipsy Max
The Crazy Train has left the station
The Crazy Train has left the station one last time. He gave us great entertainment for many years, and it’s amazing he survived so long. Much of that was down to Sharon. RIP Ozzy.
VonGenschler
One of the greatest ever
Truly one of one. There will never be another Ozzy. Black Sabbath with Ozzy is some of the greatest rock ’n’ roll ever created and, without question, some of the most influential. So glad they were all able to take the stage together one last time a few weeks ago. RIP.
MileHighMan
The great gig in the sky
Another icon of classic rock off to the great gig in the sky. Ozzy was truly a one-off.
49niner
A massive part of my life
As old and as ill as he was, I never actually expected him to die yet. So sad. He’s been a massive part of my life. RIP Oz.
Condolences to his friends and family.
Skipper
He will be sorely missed
So sorry for the family. Ozzy was a very talented man, and he will be sorely missed.
RIP Ozzy.
MrsMuggins
Your secrets are safe with us
One of the nicest, fun, talented and tortured people I’ve ever met. Great stories I will always treasure! Your secrets are safe with us, Ozzy. We’ll miss you like crazy.
LostinHollywood
Sweet and reckless
The founder of a musical genre, responsible for countless musicians, from humble beginnings to near deification.
Rest in peace, Ozzy, you sweet and reckless b******.
Hax0r
He was a real character
Very, very, very sad. Whatever anyone thought of the music and his behaviour sometimes, he was a real character. I shall miss him.
Lui1964
Some of the comments have been edited for this article for brevity and clarity.
Want to share your tribute? Simply register your details below and leave a comment. Alternatively, click ‘log in’ or ‘register’ in the top right corner to sign in or sign up.
Make sure you adhere to our community guidelines, which can be found here. For a full guide on how to comment click here.
