Sarah Ferguson pays touching tribute to Ozzy Osbourne as he dies aged 76
The rock legend died on Tuesday, July 22
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, has shared a heartfelt tribute to rock legend Ozzy Osbourne following his death at the age of 76.
The rock icon, known as the “Prince of Darkness”, died on Tuesday, July 22, surrounded by his family.
His family, including his beloved wife Sharon Osbourne, confirmed the devastating news in a statement: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning.
“He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
Sarah Ferguson posts tribute to Ozzy Osbourne after his death
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of tributes from around the world, including from Sarah Ferguson, who posted a moving message honouring the heavy metal icon’s life and legacy.
“Heartbroken to hear of Ozzy’s passing,” she wrote on her official Instagram over an image of the rock star. “A true legend, and a gentle soul beneath the wild spirit. My love and deepest condolences to my dear friend Sharon and all the family. Rest in peace, Ozzy – your music and magic will live on forever.”
Ozzy’s death comes just weeks after what would be his final performance, a highly emotional reunion with his Black Sabbath bandmates during a farewell concert at Villa Park in Birmingham.
The historic show featured performances from artists including Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.
A true legend, and a gentle soul beneath the wild spirit.
“You’ve no idea how I feel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Ozzy told the cheering crowd that night.
Despite appearing in good spirits on stage, Ozzy had battled numerous health challenges in recent years.
In 2020, he publicly shared his Parkinson’s diagnosis. He was first diagnosed with a mild form of Parkinson’s back in 2003.
In 2023, he stepped back from touring following major spinal surgery.
Sarah Ferguson’s own health challenges
Sarah’s tribute comes during a reflective chapter in her own life.
The Duchess of York recently returned to the Royal Box at Wimbledon for the first time in nearly 30 years, attending with her daughter, Princess Beatrice.
Her appearance, along with her presence at Royal Ascot this year, marked a symbolic return to royal public life under King Charles’ reign.
Behind the scenes, the duchess has also been courageously open about her own health struggles. Over the years, she was diagnosed with both breast and skin cancer.
“It was hard,” Sarah told The Times. “One diagnosis is enough to deal with. But I had two in the space of a year. I don’t mind admitting that my mind went to some dark places, reflecting on my own mortality.”
She credited her daughters and her mindfulness practice with helping her navigate the emotional toll of both illnesses.
Sarah and her ex-husband Prince Andrew, who would have celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary this week, have remained close friends despite their divorce in 1996.
The duchess has often spoken with honesty about the difficulties of royal life. In 2010, she told US television: “I was marrying my man, who happened to be a prince. But what I got was not the man, I got the palace and didn’t get him.”
Read more: Reason Princess Beatrice’s wedding was ‘less difficult’ for Sarah Ferguson than Eugenie’s big day
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