Ozzy Osbourne Faced Parkinson Disease And Addiction Before His Death

Ozzy Osbourne's life was bigger than his larger-than-life shows, and he never let his own demons diminish his stature. The iconic Black Sabbath frontman, who died on July 22 at the age of 76, had for decades been open about the war he fought within and inside his own body and mind. From his decades-long fight with Parkinson's disease to overcoming several addictions, Ozzy became a figure of unyielding truth, stubborn survival, and raw, unapologetic realness.

A diagnosis of Parkinson's in 2020 resulted in Ozzy dealing with the degenerative neurological disorder in admirably transparent fashion. Instead of staying hidden behind the curtain of fame, she drew it back, offering up the symptoms, humiliation, and surgeries of a rock star who had provided the soundtrack of their lives to fans who had grown up with her music and rebellious attitude. Diagnosed late in life, the disease did little to quiet his voice or dampen his humor. Even in interviews, he was unrelentingly frank.

Read More: Trisha Paytas Says She Had A Traumatic Birth And Chose To Remove Her Tubes

In addition to Parkinson's, Ozzy's decades-long struggle against addiction was also a defining chapter of his life. From alcohol to prescription drugs, his was a story of ruin and redemption, often in full public view. However, Ozzy's journey was remarkable for the way he was willing to acknowledge the pain behind his persona. He relapsed more times than most people fall, but he kept picking himself up, each time resolved to remain sober for himself and for his family. His wife, Sharon Osbourne, was there for him, his rock when times were rocky. Their relationship became a symbol of everlasting love despite the direst circumstances that life can throw at you. They raised their children together and navigated the storms of fame, which included illness and public scrutiny.

A little over two weeks before he died, Ozzy reunited with Black Sabbath for one last, thrilling show in his hometown of Birmingham. It was a poetic send-off, one more roar from the Prince of Darkness, amidst more music, more legacy, and more love. It has yet to be confirmed why Ozzy died, but what is certain is the mark he left on the world. His fearlessness in facing Parkinson's and addiction made him a role model to millions and left behind a remarkable discography and a roadmap for resilience.