Viewers of the BRIT Awards 2026 in Manchester expressed mixed reactions to a posthumous lifetime achievement award honoring Ozzy Osbourne, followed by a tribute performance. The Black Sabbath frontman, known as the Prince of Darkness, passed away at age 76 on July 22, 2025, from a heart attack, shortly after his Back to the Beginning farewell concert reunited him with bandmates.
Ozzy faced numerous health challenges, including surgeries after a 2019 fall and a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Black Sabbath, formed in 1968, pioneered heavy metal, while Ozzy’s solo success and the reality series The Osbournes—featuring wife Sharon and their children—introduced him to new audiences.
Sharon Osbourne Accepts Award
Sharon Osbourne, attending with daughter Kelly, accepted the award onstage. In her emotional speech, she stated: “Everyone here tonight is united by a love of music that brings us together. Such amazing artists—everyone’s a winner. How lucky we are to be in this business; it’s a gift.”
She continued: “I’m honored to accept this lifetime achievement award for my gorgeous husband. God knows I wish he were here, but you’ve got the booby prize—me! Ozzy hated speeches and would say, ‘Just say thank you and get off.’ But I’ll go on a bit.
“This industry is fickle, but Ozzy had a one-in-a-million career spanning 56 years. Authentic, gifted, unpredictable—a true wild artist from Birmingham’s working-class roots. He rose to global fame amid highs and lows, always striving to improve. Humble yet egomaniacal, he remained a proud Brummie rockstar whose heart stayed in England.”
Sharon added: “This award honors his family, the musicians and crew who supported him, Birmingham well-wishers, and millions of loyal fans worldwide. Ozzy would smile proudly from the country he loved, leaving an unforgettable legacy.”
Tribute Performance Features Robbie Williams
The ceremony at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena featured Sharon-curated tribute: a reimagined version of Black Sabbath’s 1991 track “No More Tears.” Robbie Williams performed alongside former Ozzy collaborators, including keyboardist Adam Wakeman, Metallica’s Robert Trujillo, drummer Tommy Clufetos, and guitarist Zakk Wylde.
Fans Split on Choice of Performer
Reactions divided online. Supporters praised Williams, with one viewer noting: “Robbie Williams sings Ozzy better than his own songs.” Others cheered: “Robbie smashed the Ozzy tribute!” and “Great end to the ceremony.”
Critics preferred Yungblud, who earned a 2025 Grammy for his rock take on Ozzy’s “Changes” at Villa Park. Comments included: “Yungblud would have been better for the Ozzy tribute,” and “Sharon chose Robbie, and he did an amazing job—more singers than just Yungblud.”
