Ozzy has secured himself as a household name across the world. There's only one problem: The metal behemoth known as "Ozzy Osbourne" isn't actually named "Ozzy." It's his stage name, a name he's been called for so long that people forget it's not the real thing. Ozzy Osbourne, the gloomy, demon-invoking lead singer of the pioneering band Black Sabbath who became the throaty, growling voice — and drug-and-alcohol ravaged id — of heavy metal, died Ozzy Osbourne, who has died at the age of 76, helped forge the sound that became known as heavy metal - and on top of that, the frontman practically invented the image of the wild rock star. On December 3rd, 1948, Ozzy Osbourne was born. We all know him for his solo career, his work with Black Sabbath and his reality show, but here are 20 things you might not know about the Prince of Darkness: 1. Ozzy’s real name is John Michael Osbourne. Kids in elementary school used the nickname Ozzy to taunt the young Osbourne, but he embraced it and it stuck. 2. Ozzy’s dad was a toolmaker John Michael Osbourne, better known as "Ozzy" to you and I, first earned his nickname in primary school. The name was initially meant as a taunt by other students, but the future Black Sabbath Ozzy Osbourne made incredible last gesture following final ever show before his death aged 76 The Black Sabbath singer's final show will have a lasting impact Ozzy Osbourne's sister has revealed the heartbreaking text message he sent prior to his death at the age of 76. On Tuesday (July 22), Ozzy's family announced that he had sadly died, 'surrounded by love' at the age of 76. Following Ozzy's death, the family shared a statement. Ozzy Osbourne’s career has been defined by seismic waves of heavy metal mastery and a rebellious charisma that earned him the moniker “Prince of Darkness.” Hailing from Aston, Birmingham, England, John Michael Osbourne first found his voice in the chaotic but thrilling early days of heavy metal, forging his legacy through the groundbreaking band Black Sabbath. Alongside guitarist Tony Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness,” wasn’t just a rock icon; he was also a father to six kids, each with their own unique stories, struggles, and successes. From his first marriage to Thelma Riley to his decades-long union with Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s family tree is as colorful as his career. And with his recent passing on July 22, 2025, the spotlight is shining even The name “Ozzy” was a nickname given to him when he was in primary school, and he chose to keep it as his stage name. Black Sabbath performing live at Lollapalooza 2012. Ozzy Osbourne. Actor: Little Nicky. One of the pioneers of heavy metal and one of its most commercially successful and iconic artists, Ozzy Osbourne was born in Birmingham, England, as John Michael Osbourne. After leaving school and having many odd jobs, he ended up in a band with Geezer Butler. This group then split, leading Ozzy and Geezer to join Tony Iommi and Bill Ward in a new band that Ozzy Osbourne Home » Namesakes Revisions Given name (s): Ozzy, John, Michael Surname (s): Osbourne Gender: Male Birth date: 1948 December 3 John Michael Osbourne became known as Ozzy Osbourne. While attending grammar school, he was given the nickname Ozzy because it is a short abbreviation for his surname. Ozzy Osbourne's real name was John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne. The late Black Sabbath singer was also referred to by different nicknames throughout his music career. Ozzy Osbourne is a famous vocalist and songwriter. This biography of Chris Ozzy Osbourne provides detailed information about his childhood, life, achievements, works & timeline. Aside from his stage name, heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne was also known as the music world's "Prince of Darkness." Here's how he got the nickname. Ozzy Osbourne "Ozzy" and "John Osbourne" redirect here. For similar names, see Ozzy (disambiguation), John Osborn (disambiguation), and John Osborne (disambiguation). John Michael " Ozzy " Osbourne (3 December 1948 – 22 July 2025) was an English singer, songwriter, and media personality. Ozzy Osbourne Early Life and Real Name Ozzy Osbourne was born as John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England. He was raised in a working-class family. He left school at age 15. Ozzy Osbourne. John is his given first name, but he later took the name Ozzy (after peers in school tried to make fun of him by calling him 'Ozzy'). Ozzy Osbourne married twice—first to wife Thelma (with kids Jessica, Louis & Elliot), then Sharon (with daughters Aimee & Kelly and son Jack in the family).
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