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Ozzy Osbourne Prepares for Final Performance Amid Health Challenges
Ozzy Osbourne is managing expectations ahead of his much-anticipated final live appearance this summer. The legendary musician is scheduled to take the stage with a reunited Black Sabbath at “Back to the Beginning,” a unique, one-night-only charity concert in Birmingham, England, on July 5.
Despite the excitement surrounding the event, Osbourne has candidly acknowledged his physical limitations. During a recent episode of his SiriusXM show, he stated, “I’m not planning on doing a set with Black Sabbath, but I am doing little bits and pieces with them. I am doing what I can, where I feel comfortable.”
Osbourne’s health concerns have grown increasingly prominent as he battles Parkinson’s disease. He revealed to listeners that the progression of his condition has left him unable to walk unaided, sharing, “I am trying to get back on my feet. When you get up in the morning, you just jump out of bed. I have to balance myself, but I’m not dead. I’m still actively doing things.”
The “Back to the Beginning” concert marks the first time Black Sabbath will perform together since 2005. The event is set to feature notable appearances from other music icons, including Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and Alice in Chains, with Tom Morello taking the role of musical director.
Throughout recent years, as Osbourne copes with Parkinson’s disease and has undergone multiple spinal surgeries, he has maintained a hopeful outlook regarding his ability to deliver one last performance for his fans. Initially, he was slated to return to the stage at the Power Trip festival in 2023; however, that appearance was ultimately canceled due to ongoing medical issues.
Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife, offered insights into his emotional state regarding the upcoming performance, stating, “He’s very happy to be coming back and very emotional about this. Parkinson’s is a progressive disease. It’s not something you can stabilize. It affects different parts of the body, and it’s affected his legs. But his voice is as good as it’s ever been.”
Proceeds from the “Back to the Beginning” concert will go to several charitable organizations, including Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice, which is based in Birmingham. The event will take place at Osbourne’s Villa Park, the home of his cherished Aston Villa soccer team.
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