Pioneering heavy metal musician Ozzy Osbourne has announced the cancellation of his upcoming shows. In the same statement, he also said his touring career is over because he “is not physically capable.”
Four years ago Osbourne had a major accident that caused some severe damage to his spine. These injuries are what caused him to postpone his 2019 tour, dates that are now canceled. This on top of the fact that he also announced in January 2020 that he had Parkinson’s. Then, he contracted Covid-19 in April 2022, before undergoing more surgery two months later.
All of these complications have made it so the singer can no longer cope with the travel required for touring. “My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage,” the statement reads. “My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak.”
Even with all of this going on Osbourne is still reluctant to stop touring. Ozzy and his team are “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.” Covid-19-related lockdowns have certainly started to normalize remote concerts. This might make them a viable option for performers like Ozzy. Who aren’t ready to retire but have physical limitations that make the grueling process of touring downright impossible.
The statement is concluded by thanking his family, band, crew, longtime friends, Judas Priest, and his fans “for their endless dedication, loyalty, and support, and for giving me the life that I never ever dreamed I would have.”
Check out the full statement below:
