Ozzy Osbourne Was in So Much Pain He Wished ‘He Was Dead,’ Fell ‘Into a Depression’ Because of Medical Ordeal
Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Prince of Darkness, was known not only for his groundbreaking music but also for his candidness about his health struggles. In recent years, Ozzy faced a harrowing medical ordeal that plunged him into deep physical pain and emotional turmoil. His battle with Parkinson’s disease, compounded by complications from neck surgery, led him to moments where he wished he was dead and fell into a severe depression. This article delves into the details of Ozzy Osbourne’s painful journey, the impact on his mental health, and how he bravely confronted these challenges until his final days.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Medical Ordeal and Its Impact on His Mental Health
Ozzy Osbourne’s health struggles became widely known through the documentary Ozzy: No Escape from Now, which premiered on Paramount+ on October 7. Filmed between 2021 and 2025, the documentary offers an intimate look at the rocker’s battle with Parkinson’s disease and the devastating effects of a botched neck surgery.
In 2019, Ozzy underwent neck surgery intended to alleviate his pain and improve his mobility. Unfortunately, the procedure resulted in further complications. His wife, Sharon Osbourne, revealed that the surgeon had used unnecessary metal plates, which caused additional damage to Ozzy’s nerves. This medical mishap left Ozzy weaker and in excruciating pain, significantly affecting his quality of life.
Sharon Osbourne candidly shared in the documentary, “Some days he wishes he was dead. He’s in so much pain, he can’t take it. He just wishes he could go.” Ozzy himself admitted to falling into a deep depression, saying, “The thought of not doing any gigs before, I went really into a depression. I’m on antidepressants now, actually. I was getting f—ing ready to off myself at some point, but then I’ll go there in my head and I’ll go, ‘What are you f—ing talking about?’ Because knowing me, I’d half-do it and I’d be half-dead. I mean, I wouldn’t die, you know? That’s my luck.”
His son, Jack Osbourne, expressed frustration and anger over the situation, blaming the surgeon for stripping his father of his ability to move properly. He said, “It makes me so angry because I felt like all of this could’ve been avoided. The Parkinson’s is progressing, but the main problem is the nerve damage from the bad neck surgery.”
Facing Parkinson’s Disease and the Emotional Toll
Ozzy Osbourne was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2003, a condition that gradually affected his motor skills and overall health. Despite the diagnosis, Ozzy remained determined to continue his music career and maintain a positive outlook. In a 2020 interview on Good Morning America, he described Parkinson’s not as a death sentence but as a challenge he was willing to face head-on.
However, the combination of Parkinson’s and the complications from his surgery took a heavy toll on his mental health. The rocker often felt like a burden to his family and struggled with feelings of helplessness. In the documentary, he apologized to Sharon for being a burden and expressed frustration at his own limitations.
Friends and colleagues also witnessed the emotional struggle. Billy Morrison, a close friend, described how soul-destroying it was to watch Ozzy suffer after years of touring and performing at his peak. Despite the hardships, Ozzy’s love for music remained a central part of his identity and a source of strength.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Years and Legacy
Before his passing on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76 due to a heart attack, Ozzy Osbourne continued to be open about his health journey. He remained determined to get back on stage, famously stating, “I am determined to get back on stage even if I have to be nailed to a board and wheeled on. Survival is my legacy.”
His final concert, Back to the Beginning, took place on July 5, 2025, marking the end of an era for the rock icon. The documentary Ozzy: No Escape from Now not only highlights his health struggles but also celebrates his enduring spirit and the central role music played in his life despite the challenges.
Conclusion
Ozzy Osbourne’s medical ordeal was a painful and emotional journey that tested his resilience and spirit. Battling severe pain, depression, and Parkinson’s disease, Ozzy showed incredible courage and determination until the very end. His story is a powerful reminder of the human side of fame and the strength it takes to face life’s toughest battles. Fans and admirers can honor his legacy by remembering not only his music but also his bravery in confronting adversity. To learn more about Ozzy Osbourne’s inspiring journey and watch Ozzy: No Escape from Now, visit Paramount+ and witness the true story behind the Prince of Darkness’s final chapter.
