In an interview with Rolling Stone UK published on November 26, 2023, 74-year-old rock icon Ozzy Osbourne shared an unvarnished view of his health and outlook on life.
Osbourne, who has been living with Parkinson’s disease for two decades, has faced numerous health issues, including a series of spinal surgeries. These surgeries, particularly the most recent one in September to remove a tumor from his spine, have severely affected his mobility and balance.
The renowned singer, despite his health challenges, showed a blend of defiance and acceptance in discussing his condition. Osbourne mentioned that Parkinson’s disease isn’t a dominant thought in his mind. During the interview, he displayed little of the tremors that are often symptomatic of the disease. He openly acknowledged the seriousness of his health, suggesting that he might have at most ten years left.
Osbourne, determined to maintain his integrity as a performer, stated his reluctance to perform in a compromised state, specifically mentioning he would not want to appear on stage in a wheelchair. This stance sets him apart from fellow musician Phil Collins, who has faced similar health issues.
Osbourne’s connection with his audience was palpable as he expressed sorrow over not being able to offer them a proper goodbye. He holds onto the hope of performing once more, if only for a single farewell show, to express his gratitude: “If I can’t continue doing shows regularly, I just want to be well enough for one final performance to say, ‘Hi guys, thank you for everything.'”
Reflecting on his past and considering the fate of his peers, Osbourne acknowledged his surprise at outliving many, given his history of excess and risk-taking. He referred to the deaths of several contemporaries and his own near-death experiences.
Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife since 1982, shared her thoughts on her husband’s health struggles. She described the past five years as filled with emotional pain, feeling “powerless” as she watched her husband suffer and cope with the impact of not touring, which contrasts sharply with his typically active career.