Ozzy Osbourne’s funeral draws thousands in home city

Thousands of fans gathered in Birmingham to farewell Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne, who died on July 22 at age 76. Known as the "Prince of Darkness" and "Godfather of Heavy Metal," Osbourne’s funeral procession was led by a New Orleans-style brass band, honouring his wish to avoid a sombre farewell. Fans and fellow musicians paid tribute, recalling his influence and legacy, while his wife Sharon tearfully observed floral tributes at a bench dedicated to the band. Osbourne passed away just 17 days after his final performance in Birmingham, where Metallica and Guns N' Roses honoured Black Sabbath’s impact. A private funeral followed. No cause of death was given, though Osbourne had publicly revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2020.