The Osbourne family is speaking out, and they’re not holding back. Following the loss of the iconic Ozzy Osbourne, Sharon, Jack, and Kelly are addressing the wave of reactions, both heartfelt and, frankly, bizarre, that have followed. It’s a raw and honest look at grief, legacy, and the sometimes-unpredictable ways people respond to loss.
In a recent episode of the Osbournes Podcast, the family delved into the impact of Ozzy’s passing, not just on them personally, but on the wider world. They discussed the outpouring of love and tributes, but also the less savory aspects that have emerged.
One of the main points of contention? Those exploiting Ozzy’s name for their own gain. This includes everything from unofficial merchandise flooding the market to individuals claiming to have received messages from beyond the grave.
“It really bothers me, I think it’s severely inappropriate,” Kelly stated, voicing her frustration with those pretending to have had final conversations with Ozzy. Sharon chimed in, highlighting how some people are jumping on the bandwagon, fabricating interactions with the Prince of Darkness, especially at his final Birmingham show in July. “I know the people he spoke to because they had to come into the dressing room to see him. So we know who he spoke to,” she clarified.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Kelly also mentioned individuals claiming to have received specific messages from Ozzy at his last show, which the family knows to be untrue. And then there are the self-proclaimed mediums.
Adding to the strangeness, Sharon shared a particularly unusual fan encounter. “We had one lady send us her toenails!” Kelly added, clarifying that the fan was convinced she was Ozzy’s child. Jack jokingly asked if they needed a DNA test, showcasing the absurdity of the situation.
“You go on the internet, there’s always a group of people, the fanatics, the nutters, they’ll always come out,” Sharon reflected, offering a philosophical perspective.
Jack offered a more empathetic view, suggesting that the strong reactions stem from the deep impact Ozzy had on people’s lives. “I’ve seen messages where people are like, ‘I never thought I would feel this way about someone I didn’t know dying.’ I think people are genuinely feeling this void and they’re just like, ‘Holy shit, this guy’s gone.’”
Sharon then drew a comparison between Ozzy and the late Robin Williams, highlighting their shared charisma and ability to connect with people on a genuine level. “He didn’t care who you were. Didn’t care! He’d come talk to you, give you a hug, just a great guy with no pretenses, genuine. And dad was one of those charismatic people that people were just drawn to.”
Ozzy’s final performance with Black Sabbath at the emotional “Back To The Beginning” concert in July, sparked an immense outpouring of grief. Musicians, actors, comedians, and even royalty paid tribute.
And this is the part most people miss… In a 2008 interview, Ozzy himself summed up how he’d like to be remembered: “As a guy that tried to make people have fun with their lives.” A testament to his down-to-earth nature and the joy he brought to so many.
What do you think? Do you agree with the Osbournes’ perspective on the exploitation of Ozzy’s name? Have you encountered any similar situations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!