Ozzy Osbourne, famously known as the “Prince of Darkness,” has built an enduring legacy in the music industry. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $220 million, a combined figure with his wife and longtime manager, Sharon Osbourne. Beyond his contributions to heavy metal as the lead vocalist of Black Sabbath and a prolific solo artist, Osbourne has made waves in television, business, and real estate. At 75 years old, he remains a cultural icon, continuously influencing generations of rock enthusiasts.
Early Life and Musical Influences
John Michael Osbourne was born on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England. Raised in a working-class household with three older sisters and two younger brothers, Ozzy developed an interest in music at an early age. He credits The Beatles and their song She Loves You as the inspiration that set him on the path to a musical career. His early life was challenging, as he struggled with academics and worked various odd jobs before finding his calling in music.
Rise to Fame with Black Sabbath
Osbourne’s career took off in 1969 when he co-founded Black Sabbath with Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward. The band pioneered heavy metal with their self-titled debut album in 1970, followed by legendary records such as Paranoid (1970), Master of Reality (1971), and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973). Despite critical skepticism, their albums found massive commercial success, solidifying Black Sabbath as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
However, Ozzy’s tenure with Black Sabbath ended in 1979 due to his struggles with substance abuse. His bandmates cited erratic behavior as a reason for his dismissal. While this could have marked the end of his career, it instead opened the door for an incredibly successful solo journey.
Solo Career and Continued Success
Shortly after his departure from Black Sabbath, Osbourne embarked on a solo career that would further cement his status as a rock legend. His debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz (1980), featuring the iconic tracks Crazy Train and Mr. Crowley, was a massive hit. This was followed by Diary of a Madman (1981), another commercial success.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Osbourne released several critically acclaimed albums, including Bark at the Moon (1983), No Rest for the Wicked (1988), and No More Tears (1991). He continued to produce music into the 21st century, with Ordinary Man (2020) and Patient Number 9 (2022) marking his later-year contributions to rock music.
In January 2023, Osbourne announced his retirement from touring due to ongoing health issues, including spinal damage resulting from a 2019 accident. However, he remains open to performing in select settings.
The Reality TV Era and Ozzfest
Beyond music, Ozzy found massive success in television. The Osbournes, a reality show that aired on MTV from 2002 to 2005, provided an inside look at the rock star’s home life with his wife Sharon and their children, Kelly and Jack. The show became MTV’s highest-rated series at the time, turning Ozzy into a mainstream pop culture figure.
Osbourne also created Ozzfest, a metal festival launched in 1996 that became a staple of the genre. Managed by Sharon Osbourne and assisted by their son Jack, Ozzfest has hosted some of the biggest names in metal and has grossed over $100 million.
Business Ventures and Other Projects
Osbourne’s career extends beyond music and television. He has endorsed brands such as I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! and has appeared in commercials for World of Warcraft. He also became the ambassador for Metal Casino, a rock-themed online casino, in 2017. Additionally, he is a playable character in Guitar Hero World Tour and has his own branded slot game.
His autobiography, I Am Ozzy, released in 2009, provides a candid look at his tumultuous life and career. He has also starred in the History Channel reality series Ozzy & Jack’s World Detour alongside his son.
Personal Life and Family
Osbourne’s personal life has been widely documented, particularly his relationship with Sharon Osbourne. The couple married in 1982 and has three children: Aimee, Kelly, and Jack. Sharon has played a crucial role in managing Ozzy’s career and finances, helping him navigate his decades-long journey in the entertainment industry.
Before Sharon, Ozzy was married to Thelma Riley, with whom he had two children and adopted a third. However, the marriage ended in divorce due to his struggles with addiction and the pressures of fame.
Real Estate Investments
The Osbournes have an extensive real estate portfolio, owning luxurious properties in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Some of their notable acquisitions include:
- Hidden Hills, California: In 2011, Ozzy and Sharon listed their 11,000-square-foot estate for $12.999 million, ultimately selling it for $11.5 million in 2013.
- Malibu, California: A beachfront mansion they sold in 2012 for just under $8 million.
- Sierra Towers, Los Angeles: In 2014, they bought a condo for $4 million, later acquiring an adjacent unit in 2021. Ozzy listed one of these units for sale in 2023 for $4.8 million.
- Hancock Park, Los Angeles: In 2015, they purchased an 11,500-square-foot mansion for $12 million. They listed this property for sale in 2022 for $18 million.
- Welders House, Buckinghamshire, England: Their longtime home in the UK, reflecting their British roots.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Ozzy Osbourne’s influence on heavy metal is unparalleled. With over 100 million albums sold, multiple Hall of Fame inductions, and countless accolades, he remains a pivotal figure in rock history. From his tumultuous early years to his reinvention as a solo artist and television personality, Osbourne has defied the odds to remain relevant for over five decades.