‘the teenage ozzy would never believe, not in a million years, he could have the life i’ve had’

His life may have been defined by chaos, controversy and tales of excess, but music legend Ozzy Osbourne got what could be described as the perfect send off last week when he passed away at 76, surrou

Ozzy as a young boy. He attended Prince Albert Junior & Infant School in Aston, where he picked up the nickname Ozzy. He was born John Michael Osbourne. The first ever picture of Ozzy’s band – Tony Io

Heavy metal wildman and lovable reality TV dad ...

Over seemingly insurmountable obstacles, OZZY OSBOURNE dragged himself to the pinnacle of rock'n'roll. Haunted by rejection, raddled with substances, but also full of love, fun and a talent he couldn't describe or always understand, his victory was one for every underdog, everywhere. SYLVIE SIMMONS watched it all unfold...

A consummate showman, OZZY OSBOURNE became a megastar by adopting a role as the Prince Of Darkness. His chaotic reputation, however, can sometimes obscure a more interesting character: the charismatic, natural-born frontman who never underestimated the influence and musical power of his first band, Black Sabbath. John Robinson surveys Ozzy’s career and salutes his triumphs, his legacy – and also his humility. “I remember thinking, ‘This’ll be all right for a few years, have a party every night’ – now here we are 50 years up the fucking road. It’s beyond any dream I could ever have had.”

The death of Black Sabbath’s lead singer last week, aged 76, has left his wife Sharon, his kids, and his bandmates, shattered