On Wednesday (2.01) Ozzy Osbourne officially cancelled all upcoming shows and formally announced his retirement from touring.
In a lengthy statement, the former Black Sabbath frontman confirmed that his body remains weak after his 2019 fall and he’s therefore “not physically capable” of going on tour. And taking to social media, the infamous rocker (born John Michael Osbourne) wrote:
“As you may all know, four years ago, this month, I had a major accident, where I damaged my spine.” “My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage. My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy sessions, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak.” “I am honestly humbled by the way you’ve all patiently held onto your tickets for all this time, but in all good conscience, I have now come to the realization that I’m not physically capable of doing my upcoming European/UK tour dates, as I know I couldn’t deal with the travel required. Believe me when I say that the thought of disappointing my fans really F**KS ME UP, more than you will ever know.”
Due to the 74-year-old’s inconsistent health issues coupled with the pandemic, the European leg of Osbourne’s No More Tours II farewell tour was pushed back a number of times. The musician, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, underwent major surgery to remove and realign pins in his neck and back in June 2022 and, because it seemed hopeful that he would be able to tour again, the trek was due to begin in Finland on 3 May and conclude in his hometown of Birmingham, England on June 14.
Though proper touring is a non-starter, Osbourne went on to state that he will continue performing one-off shows, stating “Never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way. My team is currently coming up with ideas for where I will be able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country.”
Ozzy Osbourne concluded his post by thanking his family, band, touring crew and fans for their loyalty and support.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Kevin Burkett