On July 21, 2025, the world bid farewell to John Michael Osbourne, known to millions as Ozzy Osbourne, the “Prince of Darkness.” The Black Sabbath frontman, who passed away at 76, left behind a legacy of groundbreaking music, wild antics, and an irrepressible sense of humor that he insisted should shine through even at his funeral. True to his character, Ozzy’s plans for his final farewell were anything but ordinary, blending his trademark wit with a desire to leave his fans smiling.
Ozzy’s vision for his funeral was clear: it was to be a celebration, not a somber affair. In a 2011 interview with The Times, he dismissed the idea of a “mope-fest,” emphasizing that his send-off should reflect the joy he tried to bring to others. “It’s worth remembering that a lot of people see nothing but misery their whole lives,” he said. “I want my funeral to be a time to say ‘thanks.’” To ensure that spirit, he jokingly suggested outlandish ideas, like a knock from inside the coffin or a pre-recorded video of himself demanding a “second opinion” on his death. He even quipped that the music didn’t matter much—even a medley of Justin Bieber and Susan Boyle would do, as long as it kept the mood light.
Music, however, was a key part of his plans. In a 2016 interview with NME, Ozzy revealed he’d want The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life” from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band played at his funeral. He also mentioned other tracks from Sgt. Pepper or Revolver as possibilities, noting with characteristic self-deprecation that he rarely listened to his own music. “I don’t sit around playing Paranoid or War Pigs,” he said, laughing. “I’d rather hear something that takes me somewhere else.” This choice reflected his lifelong admiration for The Beatles, whose innovative sound influenced Black Sabbath’s own boundary-pushing music.
Ozzy’s humor extended to how he wanted to be remembered. In a 2020 appearance on Good Morning Britain, when asked about his legacy, he delivered a classic Ozzy line: “Bats taste like s—.” The quip referenced his infamous 1982 incident of biting a bat onstage, a moment that cemented his wild-man reputation. Yet, behind the shock value, it was a reminder of his ability to find humor in even the most bizarre moments of his life. That irreverence was part of what made him a cultural icon, as much as his music.
Despite the levity of his funeral plans, Ozzy’s death left a profound void. His sisters, Jean Powell, 85, and Gillian Hemming, 80, spoke to The Mirror about their grief. Jean recalled their last meeting at Black Sabbath’s farewell concert in 2017, where Ozzy, though frail, was still brimming with plans and jokes. “In his last text, he said he’d be coming back,” she shared, her voice heavy with emotion. “He was still our John.” Gillian echoed this, emphasizing the authenticity that defined him: “What the public saw was exactly who he was. It wasn’t an act.” Their words painted a picture of a man who, despite his larger-than-life persona, remained grounded in his roots as John Osbourne from Aston, Birmingham.
Ozzy’s funeral plans were a reflection of his philosophy: life, even in its darkest moments, should be met with resilience and a laugh. His career, spanning over five decades, was marked by this duality—creating heavy, brooding music with Black Sabbath while maintaining a playful, almost childlike sense of mischief. From his reality TV days on The Osbournes to his solo career’s theatrical performances, he never took himself too seriously. His funeral was to be no different, a final performance designed to leave his audience smiling through their tears.
The impact of Ozzy’s death rippled across the music world. Tributes poured in from fans and fellow musicians, many of whom cited his influence on heavy metal and his ability to connect with audiences through raw honesty. Black Sabbath’s pioneering sound laid the groundwork for countless bands, and Ozzy’s solo work, including albums like Blizzard of Ozz and No More Tears, solidified his status as a legend. Yet, it was his personality—equal parts chaotic and heartfelt—that made him unforgettable.
As per his wishes, Ozzy’s funeral is expected to be a unique event, blending music, humor, and gratitude. While the details remain private, those close to him suggest it will include touches of his playful spirit, perhaps with a nod to The Beatles and a few surprises to keep the crowd chuckling. For Ozzy, death was not an end but another stage to perform on, one last chance to remind the world that life is too short to be taken too seriously.
Ozzy Osbourne may be gone, but his farewell promises to be as unforgettable as the man himself. In true Prince of Darkness fashion, he’s ensured that even in death, he’ll leave us laughing.
