The world is mourning the loss of a rock icon, but for Kelly Osbourne, the pain is deeply personal. In an emotional tribute released early this morning, Kelly paid homage to her late father, legendary Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne, calling him her “best friend” and “the greatest man I’ve ever known.”
Ozzy Osbourne, known as the Prince of Darkness, passed away earlier this week at the age of 76. His death has sent shockwaves across the music industry and among generations of fans who revered him for his raw talent, rebellious spirit, and resilience through decades of personal and health struggles.
In a heartfelt Instagram post accompanied by a black-and-white photo of herself holding her father’s hand, Kelly wrote:
> “You were my hero long before the world knew your name. But to me, you were simply Dad — my protector, my teacher, my best friend. I don’t know how to exist in a world without you in it. I feel lost. You were the strongest, most brilliant, and loving man. You taught me to be brave, to fight for what I believe in, and to never lose my sense of humor. Thank you for being everything I needed and more. I will love you until my last breath.”
Fans and celebrities alike have flooded her post with messages of condolence and shared memories of the rock legend. Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife of over 40 years, also shared a somber statement, calling Ozzy the “love of her life” and “a true warrior to the very end.”
Kelly, 40, has often spoken openly about her close bond with her father. From their unforgettable days on MTV’s *The Osbournes* reality show in the early 2000s to supporting him through battles with addiction and illness, the father-daughter duo remained tightly knit. Ozzy often credited Kelly and her brother Jack with giving him strength in some of his darkest times.
In recent years, Kelly had taken a more active role in caring for Ozzy as his health deteriorated due to Parkinson’s disease and complications from past injuries. Despite his frailty, Ozzy made several public appearances with his family, including a final emotional performance at a private event last year, where Kelly was seen helping her father off stage.
“Ozzy was more than just a rock legend,” Kelly said in a follow-up statement. “He was a father who loved fiercely and deeply, who made us laugh even when he was in pain. He gave everything he had to the world — his music, his soul, and his heart. I will spend the rest of my life trying to make him proud.”
The music industry has responded in kind. Fellow artists such as Metallica, Dave Grohl, and Tony Iommi have issued public tributes, hailing Ozzy as one of the greatest and most influential voices in rock history.
Plans for a public memorial are reportedly underway, with fans expected to gather in cities around the world for candlelight vigils and tribute concerts. The Osbourne family has asked for privacy but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love.
As tributes continue to pour in, Kelly Osbourne’s words stand as a poignant reminder of the personal loss behind a public legacy. While the world grieves the death of a heavy metal icon, Kelly is mourning the man she simply called “Dad.”
Ozzy Osbourne is survived by his wife Sharon, and children Aimee, Kelly, Jack, and several grandchildren. His influence, music, and legacy will undoubtedly endure — but for Kelly, the silence left behind is immeasurable.
“He may have been the Prince of Darkness,” she said, “but to me, he was the light of my life.”