Ozzy Osbourne’s Last Rites: A Final Chronicle of Resilience and Reflection

Completed just days before his death in July 2025, Ozzy Osbourne’s third and final book, Last Rites, serves as a poignant testament to the health struggles he faced in the latter half of his life. This compelling narrative not only chronicles his battles with illness but also reflects on his storied career and the lessons learned along the way.

The Journey to a Final Goodbye

Osbourne’s determination to bid a proper farewell to his fans is nothing short of remarkable. Through recounting various surgeries, near-death experiences, and his desire to return to the stage for the Back to the Beginning concert, he offers a unique perspective on both his life and legacy.

Notable Revelations from Last Rites

1. The Hangover that Sparked His Best Performance

Osbourne reflects on a legendary performance at the Monsters of Rock festival in 1984, crediting a “steaming hangover” from the night before as the secret to his success. “I rolled out of bed in the afternoon, got shot up with Decadron, went on stage and absolutely killed it,” he recalls, illustrating the irony of spontaneity in performance.

2. The Bandmate with Unusual Habits

In a humorous yet disturbing anecdote, Osbourne recounts having to fire Don Costa, a replacement bassist who exhibited bizarre behavior, including using a cheese grater on his skin during performances and making unwanted advances towards Osbourne himself.

3. A Costly Legal Oversight

Osbourne reveals the regret he shares with his Black Sabbath bandmates over a single word in their early contracts that cost them an estimated 100 million pounds. “If I could go back in time and teach myself one legal term, it would be ‘perpetuity,'” he laments.

4. Connections Through Alcoholics Anonymous

Osbourne shares personal stories of celebrities he met in Alcoholics Anonymous, including a poignant reflection on the late Matthew Perry, who attended meetings at his home. “He’d given everything he had to stay clean,” Osbourne writes, expressing his sadness over Perry’s untimely death.

5. A Haunting Account of Randy Rhoads’ Death

Offering a deeply personal narrative, Osbourne describes the tragic plane crash that killed guitarist Randy Rhoads in 1982. He paints a vivid picture of the chaos and confusion that ensued, capturing the horror of that moment and its lasting impact on him.

6. Making Peace with Ronnie James Dio

After years of tension, Osbourne finds closure regarding his firing from Black Sabbath and Dio’s subsequent role as lead singer. “On reflection, getting fired from Sabbath was the best thing that ever happened to me,” he states, acknowledging the renewed passion it ignited in both himself and the band.

7. Discovering His Identity

Osbourne reflects on how he truly became “Ozzy” after marrying Sharon, contrasting his previous identity as “John.” “My first wife had refused point-blank to ever call me Ozzy,” he notes, highlighting the transformative nature of his relationship with Sharon.

8. Desperate Times and Scams

During his health struggles, Osbourne fell victim to fraudulent treatments, including a costly CAT scan that turned out to be a mere X-ray. “I ain’t proud to say we got taken in by a couple of total quacks,” he admits, illustrating the desperation that drove him to seek unconventional solutions.

9. Reconciliation with Bill Ward

As his health declined, Osbourne reconnected with estranged bandmate Bill Ward, leading to an emotional conversation that underscored their shared history and camaraderie. “I love you too, Ozzy. You fucking lunatic,” Ward replied, highlighting the bond that remains despite past grievances.

10. Completing the Book Before His Death

In a fitting culmination to his life’s work, Osbourne finished Last Rites just two days before his passing. The final chapter encapsulates his joy during the Back to the Beginning concert and reflects on his acceptance of mortality. “Death’s been knocking at my door for the last six years,” he writes, yet his plans for the future remain hopeful and full of life.

Conclusion

Ozzy Osbourne’s Last Rites is a remarkable chronicle of resilience, offering fans an intimate look at his struggles, triumphs, and the wisdom he gained throughout his storied life. Through humor and honesty, Osbourne leaves behind a legacy that is as complex as it is inspiring, ensuring that his fans will remember him not just as a rock legend, but as a human being who faced his demons with courage and candor.

FAQs

What is the main theme of Ozzy Osbourne’s Last Rites?

The main theme revolves around Osbourne’s health struggles and reflections on his life and career, culminating in a message of resilience and acceptance of mortality.

When did Ozzy Osbourne complete Last Rites?

Ozzy Osbourne completed the book just two days before his death in July 2025.

What notable figures does Osbourne mention in the book?

He mentions several celebrities, including Matthew Perry and Eric Clapton, particularly regarding their connections through Alcoholics Anonymous.

How does Osbourne reflect on his time with Black Sabbath?

He expresses regret over legal oversights and shares a sense of reconciliation with former bandmate Ronnie James Dio, acknowledging the positive impact of his firing from the band.

What can readers expect from the writing style of Last Rites?

Readers can expect a candid, humorous, and deeply personal writing style that reflects Osbourne’s unique personality and experiences.