Geezer Butler Recalls Frail Ozzy Osbourne in Heartbreaking Final Black Sabbath Show

In a deeply moving reflection, Black Sabbath bassist Terence "Geezer" Butler shared a heartbreaking account of the band’s final performance with the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, just weeks before the icon’s passing on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. The show, a historic reunion near their hometowns, became a poignant farewell to the man Butler called the Prince of Laughter, a born entertainer who lived to bring joy to others.

Butler recalled the stark reality of seeing Ozzy’s frail condition during rehearsals for the July 5 concert. Supported by aides, a nurse, and a studded black cane that screamed his signature style, Osbourne could only sit during practice, his energy waning after just a few songs. Yet, when the day of the epic 10-hour event arrived—hosted by Jason Momoa and featuring giants like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses—Ozzy took the stage on a skull-adorned black throne, delivering classics like Crazy Train and Mama I’m Coming Home with a spirit that defied his physical limitations. His words to the crowd, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart," echoed with raw gratitude.

The bassist lamented the awkward end to the show, where the usual group hug was impossible due to Ozzy’s condition. Instead, a handshake, a cake, and an unspoken weight of finality marked the close of a 57-year brotherhood. Butler’s regret over not spending more time backstage with his friend lingers, but he finds solace in knowing they shared one last stage, surrounded by fans and fellow artists paying tribute to a rock titan.

Ozzy’s journey, from a theater-loving kid in Aston, West Midlands, to a global icon inspired by The Beatles’ She Loves You, was one of resilience. Despite battles with health, including Parkinson’s, and a life marked by both chaos and triumph, he told the world his legacy was survival. Leaving behind a family including wife Sharon and children Kelly, Aimee, Jack, and others, Osbourne’s impact on music—and on those who knew him—remains indelible.