Ozzy Osbourne dies at 76: Black Sabbath rocker lived with Parkinson's disease, spinal injury before death

Yahoo

5 days ago

Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Black Sabbath rocker, has died at the age of 76.
"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," his family said in a statement on Tuesday. "We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time." The statement was signed by his wife, Sharon Osbourne, their children, Kelly, Jack, and Aimee, as well as his son, Louis, from a previous marriage.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.
Osbourne, the pioneering frontman of the heavy metal band Black Sabbath, had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019. Prior to his death, he had been recovering from several spinal surgeries. His cause of death has not yet been released.
The English rocker discussed his Parkinson's diagnosis on his SiriusXM radio show in February 2025.
"I have made it to 2025," he said. "I can't walk, but you know what I was thinking over the holidays? For all my complaining, I'm still alive."
"I may be moaning that I can't walk, but I look down the road and there are people who didn't do half as much as I and didn't make it," he added.
Despite his ongoing health challenges, Osbourne, nicknamed the "Prince of Darkness," performed a farewell concert in his hometown of Birmingham, England, on July 5.
What exactly is Parkinson's disease and how does the disorder impact a person's health? Read on to learn more.
What is Parkinson's disease?
According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting the parts of the brain that control movement. Sometimes, it can lead to someone developing dementia in the later stages of the disease.
Movement is typically controlled by dopamine, a chemical that carries signals between nerves inside the brain. When cells that usually produce dopamine die, symptoms of Parkinson's disease arise.
What are the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
While symptoms of Parkinson's disease can vary, the most common include tremors, slowness, stiffness and balance problems. Other symptoms of the disorder include:
Fatigue
Soft speech
Problems with handwriting
Stooped posture
Constipation
Sleep disturbances
Mood and personality changes
Appetite changes
However, a diagnosis can take time and there are no x-rays or tests that can confirm the disease, according to Parkinson Canada. Instead, a neurologist will typically look at a patient's medical history and conduct tests to rule out other conditions.
Who's at risk of developing Parkinson's disease?
Ten million people worldwide are affected by Parkinson's disease, the Parkinson's Foundation said.
While the cause of the disease remains largely unknown, many scientists believe it's caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The risk of developing the disease also increases if you have a close relative with Parkinson's disease.
The risk of developing it also increases with age, and men are more likely to get the disorder compared to women.
How is Parkinson's disease treated?
There is currently no known cure for Parkinson's disease. However, people with the disorder can live for many years.
Medications are often used in treating the symptoms of Parkinson's, including Levodopa to help lessen challenges with movement. Medications used for Alzheimer's disease can also be used to help improve any dementia symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.
In some cases, surgery may be recommended for severe motor fluctuations. Therapeutic approaches may also be suggested to help people with physical function or speech.
How can I prevent Parkinson's disease?
While the key to preventing Parkinson's disease remains a mystery, scientists do know aging, stress and inflammation can cause cell damage and abnormal dopamine levels in the brain.
Keeping stress levels low is important in reducing inflammation in the body, while regular exercise and consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and Omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial.