Photo courtesy of 955klos.com

The world of rock has lost one of its most iconic voices. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and heavy metal pioneer, has passed away at the age of 76.

In a heartfelt statement released by the Osbourne family, they shared, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.” The family also requested privacy as they grieve this monumental loss.

No cause of death has been publicly confirmed at this time.

Ozzy’s rise to fame began in Birmingham, England, where he co-founded Black Sabbath in 1968 alongside Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Together, they redefined the genre of rock music and laid the foundation for heavy metal. With classic tracks like “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” “Paranoid,” and “Children of the Grave,” Black Sabbath earned worldwide acclaim, multiple Grammy Awards, and a 2006 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Though Ozzy was dismissed from the band in 1979 due to struggles with addiction, he went on to launch a hugely successful solo career. His debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz,” became a massive hit, featuring unforgettable songs like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.” Over the years, he released 13 solo albums, eight of which went platinum in the U.S., and earned five more Grammy Awards.

Much of Ozzy’s solo success was guided by Sharon Osbourne, who became his manager after meeting him through her father, a music industry executive. Sharon played a crucial role in helping him rebuild his life and career after his split from Black Sabbath. The two married in 1982 and weathered many ups and downs throughout their decades-long relationship.

In the early 2000s, Ozzy became a reality TV icon thanks to “The Osbournes,” the hit MTV show that gave fans a chaotic and entertaining glimpse into the life of the unconventional rock family. The series helped introduce Ozzy’s children—Kelly, Jack, and Aimee—to the public, many of whom have since gone on to become media personalities themselves.

Ozzy is survived by his wife Sharon, his children, and a growing number of grandchildren.

He leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking music, raw honesty, and larger-than-life charisma that changed the face of rock forever.

Rest in peace, Prince of Darkness.