Black Sabbath bassist shares poignant observations on frailty, friendship, and a bittersweet farewell

July 28, 2025: Birmingham, England — Just weeks before the passing of Ozzy Osbourne at age 76, Black Sabbath performed one final, emotionally charged concert at Villa Park. The benefit event, titled Back to the Beginning, saw the original lineup reunite for the first time in two decades—with proceeds supporting Parkinson’s research and children’s hospitals. In a recently published memoir excerpt and interview, bassist Geezer Butler vividly described the emotional weight and strange final moments of that historic night.

Shock at Seeing Ozzy’s Frailty

Butler admitted he had been aware of Osbourne’s health issues—but was unprepared for how physically fragile he appeared. Rehearsal footage showed him needing assistance from two helpers and a nurse, holding a cane decorative enough to match his rock legend status.

“I knew he wasn’t in good health, but I wasn’t prepared to see how frail he was… he sang while seated.”

The singer’s quiet demeanor during rehearsals stood in contrast to his former boisterous persona. According to Butler, Ozzy grew exhausted after just six or seven songs—a reality that tempered expectations but heightened emotional impact.

The “Throne” Finale That Caught Everyone Off Guard

At the end of the concert, the band faced a scramble—they’d planned to bow together, but Ozzy’s elevated position on a throne made it impossible. Butler described the awkward yet touching resolution:

“Tony shook his hand, I presented him with a cake … such a strange feeling to end our story like that.”

Reflections on a Lifelong Bond

In his tribute, Butler wrestled with poignant regret—wishing he’d had more time backstage with his longtime friend. Despite that, he remains deeply grateful:

“I am so privileged to have spent most of my life with him … God bless, Oz, it has been one hell of a ride! Love you.”

Their friendship spanned over 57 years—from youth in Birmingham to global stardom—and was rooted in loyalty, shared hardship, and mutual admiration.

Why It Resonated

Human frailty on full display: Seeing Ozzy—a figure associated with manic energy—struggling during his final performance was a stark reminder of his humanity.

Farewell without fanfare: Without the usual cheers, the show closed with quiet reverence rather than spectacle.

Legacy in real time: Fans and fellow bands paid tribute throughout the night, underlining the weight of a musical and cultural legacy.

Final Thought

Geezer Butler’s candid reflections reveal a moment of profound intimacy: a farewell not just to Ozzy Osbourne, the icon, but to a lifelong friend and brother-in-music. Their last bow was unconventional, quiet—but unforgettable: one final ride together across five decades of heavy metal history.