How Old Was Ozzy Osbourne When He Died? Age & Cause

There are few figures in rock whose age ever seems to matter quite as much as Ozzy Osbourne’s — maybe because he kept defying expectations for so long. When he passed away on 22 July 2025 at the age of 76, the news hit fans around the world. This article pieces together the factual timeline of his final years, his health battles, and the family story that played out alongside his music career.

Born: 3 December 1948 ·
Died: 22 July 2025 ·
Age at death: 76 ·
Real name: John Michael Osbourne ·
Marriages: 2 ·
Biological children: 6

Eight key facts, one pattern: every milestone in Ozzy’s life — from his birth to his final diagnosis — is documented by multiple authoritative sources, but the exact sequence of his Parkinson’s disclosure has been corrected over time.

The implication: the public narrative of Ozzy’s health rested on a timeline that shifted as the family chose to disclose more details over the years.

How old was Ozzy Osbourne when he died?

Ozzy Osbourne was 76 years old when he died on 22 July 2025. He was born on 3 December 1948 in Birmingham, England (The Guardian obituary). At the time of his death, he would have turned 77 in December 2025.

His age at death is confirmed by multiple major outlets, including NPR public radio obituary and Le Monde international obituary.

The pattern: the question “how old is Ozzy Osbourne” became a search reflex because his health odyssey made each year feel like a bonus. The answer, finally, is 76.

Why did Ozzy Osbourne pass away?

His family announced that he died from complications of Parkinson’s disease and other disorders. Le Monde international obituary reported that the family said he was “surrounded by love” when he passed away at his home in Los Angeles.

Some reports have mentioned a heart attack. Wikipedia 2025 entry states that his death was ruled a heart attack with cardiac arrest, listing Parkinson’s disease as an associated factor. However, the family’s official statement did not include a heart attack, and the cause is recorded as complications of Parkinson’s.

The catch: there is a gap between the official cause (Parkinson’s complications) and one coroner’s classification (cardiac arrest with associated Parkinson’s). The scientific consensus recognizes Parkinson’s as the underlying driver.

What is Ozzy Osbourne diagnosed with?

Ozzy Osbourne was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In a 2020 appearance on ABC News Good Morning America, he revealed the diagnosis publicly. According to People reporting Sharon’s account, Sharon later said he had first been diagnosed in 2003. The Irish Times obituary described the condition as a variant called Parkin 2 (Parkinsonism).

He also faced other health issues: spinal surgery in 2022 after a fall, and a cancelled UK and European tour in 2023 due to physical weakness (The Guardian news obituary).

The catch: the exact year of diagnosis (2003 vs. 2019) remains unclear, but the presence of Parkinson’s is not in dispute.

What is Ozzy Osbourne’s real name?

His legal name was John Michael Osbourne. He adopted the stage name “Ozzy” early in his career. The Guardian obituary confirms his birth name and date of birth.

The name change is a classic rock move: John Michael Osbourne became Ozzy, and the world forgot the original.

How many marriages has Ozzy Osbourne had?

Ozzy Osbourne was married twice. His first marriage was to Thelma Riley from 1971 to 1982. He then married Sharon Arden (later Sharon Osbourne) in 1982, and they remained married until his death in 2025 (The Guardian obituary).

Ozzy met Sharon in 1979, while she was working for her father, music manager Don Arden. The couple had three biological children together: Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. Ozzy also had three children from his first marriage: Jessica, Louis, and Elliot.

Did Ozzy leave his wife for Sharon?

There is uncertainty about the exact overlap. The timeline: Ozzy separated from Thelma Riley in 1981 and officially divorced in 1982. He met Sharon in 1979 and married her in 1982. Whether the relationship began before separation is not publicly confirmed, but the marriage dates are clear.

Was Ozzy faithful to his wife?

Ozzy’s relationship with Sharon has been publicly rocky, but no confirmed infidelity allegations have been substantiated. The couple’s reality show The Osbournes portrayed a volatile but lasting bond.

How many biological kids did Ozzy have?

Ozzy Osbourne had six biological children: three with his first wife Thelma Riley (Jessica Starshine, Louis, and Elliot) and three with Sharon (Aimee, Kelly, and Jack). The Guardian obituary lists all six.

What sickness does Sharon Osbourne have?

Sharon Osbourne has been open about her diagnosis of bipolar disorder. She has spoken about it in interviews, including on ABC News Good Morning America during the family’s 2020 appearance. She does not have Parkinson’s disease.

The pattern: while Ozzy’s health dominated headlines, Sharon’s own health challenges were often overshadowed by the family’s collective narrative of resilience.

How old is Sharon Osbourne?

Sharon Osbourne was born on 9 October 1952, making her 72 years old at the time of Ozzy’s death in July 2025. Le Monde international obituary notes that she was by his side when he died.

When did Ozzy Osbourne die?

Ozzy Osbourne died on 22 July 2025. His family announced the news on the same morning, requesting privacy (Le Monde international obituary).

Who found Ozzy Osbourne dead?

His family was present at the time of death. The statement from the family said he was “surrounded by love” at his home in Los Angeles.

Did Ozzy Osbourne die of a heart attack?

Although Wikipedia 2025 entry lists the cause as cardiac arrest with Parkinson’s as an associated factor, the family’s statement and the majority of press reports attribute the death to complications of Parkinson’s disease. The official cause remains under the category of natural causes related to Parkinson’s.

For the music industry and fans alike, the choice is clear: celebrate the 76 years of a man who gave heavy metal its voice, or dwell on the tragic details of his decline. The legacy of Ozzy Osbourne will outlive the uncertainties of his medical timeline.

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