Ozzy Osbourne and Tony Iommi | Source: Instagram/tonyiommi
Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi Remembers His Bandmate Ozzy Osbourne
Jul 23, 2025 - 11:33 A.M.
The lead guitarist, who co-founded Black Sabbath alongside the late frontman, was left speechless after learning of his passing. He shared a heartbreaking tribute in his honor.
Tony Iommi is mourning his longtime friend and bandmate, Ozzy Osbourne, who took his last breath on July 22, 2025. The musician took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, remembering the legendary singer.
"I just can't believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park," Iommi began. The pair had reunited with the other original Black Sabbath members, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward, for Osbourne's farewell performance on July 5.
"It's just such heartbreaking news that I can't really find the words, there won't ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother. My thoughts go out to Sharon and all the Osbourne family. Rest in peace Oz. Tony," he wrote.
A view of the memorial at Ozzy Osbourne's Hollywood Walk of Fame star on July 22, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Iommi co-founded Black Sabbath with Osbourne, Ward, and Butler in 1968. He briefly left the band that same year to join Jethro Tull, though he never recorded any material with the group. He subsequently returned to Black Sabbath and remained with the band until the very end.
The rock icons had their final performance together earlier this month, on July 5, at Villa Park in Birmingham. It was also Osbourne's final performance as the singer bid farewell to his fans. Upon his passing, his family released 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," the statement read.
