Ozzy Osbourne’s support for gay rights remembered by queer stars following his passing
Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy as a rock icon is well-documented, but his early support for the LGBTQ+ community is often overlooked. The Black Sabbath frontman, who passed away at the age of 76, had a multifaceted career that spanned different genres and roles, including being a reality TV star, animal rights activist, and a family man.
Despite his reputation for being a hard rocker, Osbourne showed his support for the gay community in the 1980s, a time when the AIDS epidemic was rampant. In 1989, he publicly apologized after his guitarist made a homophobic remark on stage, and he subsequently donated thousands to AIDS Walk Long Beach. Years later, he condemned the anti-LGBTQ+ Westboro Baptist Church for using his song “Crazy Train” during their protests, referring to the church as “evil.”
Osbourne’s passing was confirmed by his family, who asked for privacy during this time of grief. The rock legend had been battling health issues, including Parkinson’s disease, which left him unable to stand for prolonged periods. Despite his health struggles, he continued to perform and engage with his fans, as evidenced by his recent concert in Birmingham.
During the Back to the Beginning concert, pansexual pop punk singer Yungblud paid tribute to Osbourne, calling him “the greatest of all time.” Other artists, including Elton John and Billie Joe Armstrong, also expressed their sadness at the loss of a music legend. John described Osbourne as a dear friend and a trailblazer in the rock music industry, while Armstrong simply stated, “We love you, Ozzy.”
Osbourne’s impact on the music industry and his gesture of support for the LGBTQ+ community serve as a reminder of his complex and multifaceted personality. While he may be remembered for his wild antics and rockstar persona, his quiet advocacy for marginalized communities demonstrates a different side to the iconic musician. As fans mourn his passing, they also celebrate his legacy as a pioneer in heavy metal music and a supporter of social causes.