Ozzy Osbourne to Visit Ukraine: A Symbol of Support from the Prince of Darkness
By RockWire Correspondent | July 12, 2025
In a move both unexpected and powerful, heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne has announced he will be visiting Ukraine later this year in a personal show of solidarity and hope amid the country’s ongoing struggles. The “Prince of Darkness” may be best known for biting the head off bats and pioneering the sound of Black Sabbath, but his next act could become one of his most meaningful—bringing music, attention, and moral support to a nation in crisis.
A Rock Icon’s Unexpected Mission
At 76 years old, and despite ongoing health challenges, Ozzy remains a cultural force with a message that transcends music. In a video released early this morning on his official social media platforms, the rock icon confirmed plans to travel to Kyiv this autumn, accompanied by wife Sharon Osbourne and a small support team.
“People always ask what metal stands for,” Ozzy said, seated in his garden with a Union Jack scarf draped across his shoulders. “It stands for strength. It stands for rebellion. And it stands for standing up for what’s bloody right. I’m coming to Ukraine to say: you are not alone.”
From Birmingham to Bucha: A Journey of Spirit
Ozzy’s visit is not part of a concert tour, but rather a humanitarian and symbolic mission. According to his team, the visit will include a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stops at several war-impacted towns including Bucha and Irpin, and a special performance in Kyiv’s Maidan Square.
The idea reportedly came from Sharon Osbourne, who has been increasingly vocal about the responsibility of public figures to take moral stands. “We’re not going to change the world,” Sharon said in an interview with The Times. “But we can shine a spotlight on the strength of the people of Ukraine, and Ozzy’s presence will mean something.”
Music as a Weapon of Peace
Though he won’t be bringing his full tour gear, Ozzy is expected to perform a stripped-back acoustic set in Kyiv, featuring songs like “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” “Dreamer,” and Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs”—the latter already widely seen as an anti-war anthem. He will be joined by longtime collaborators Zakk Wylde and Geezer Butler for what could be one of the most poignant performances of his career.
“Music doesn’t stop missiles,” Ozzy said, “but it can reach the soul in ways nothing else can. If I can make one soldier, one mother, one kid feel just a bit stronger, then it’s worth every bloody mile.”
Global Reactions and Local Impact
The announcement has already sent waves through the international rock and political communities alike. Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, using hashtags like #OzzyForUkraine and #MetalForPeace. Ukrainian rock fans, in particular, have expressed a mixture of awe and gratitude.
“His music helped us get through the first bombs,” tweeted one fan from Kharkiv. “Now he’s coming here in person. That’s not just rock—it’s respect.”
Ukrainian officials praised the visit as a welcome show of international solidarity. “Ozzy Osbourne is a symbol of resistance and endurance,” said Minister of Culture Oleksandr Tkachenko. “His presence here will send a message to the world: Ukraine still stands. And so does rock ’n’ roll.”
Health, Hope, and the Human Spirit
The visit will not be without risk. Security concerns remain high, and Ozzy’s ongoing health issues—including a recent spinal surgery and battle with Parkinson’s disease—make any travel a logistical challenge. But those close to him say he’s never been more determined.
“Dad’s always been the guy who fights through the pain,” said Kelly Osbourne. “He’s had every excuse to just rest and disappear, but instead he’s saying, ‘No, I want to do something real.’ That’s who he is.”
Sharon added, “This might be the last big journey he takes. But what a way to use it.”
A Legacy of Defiance
Ozzy Osbourne’s career has always been one of transformation—from working-class Birmingham kid to global icon, from tabloid villain to elder statesman of heavy metal. With this journey to Ukraine, he’s adding a new chapter—one not written with riffs or pyrotechnics, but with presence and purpose.
In a world where celebrity can so often feel empty, Ozzy’s planned visit is a reminder of what it can still mean. In his own raspy words: “I ain’t a politician. I ain’t a preacher. I’m just a bloke with a mic and a heart. And right now, my heart’s with Ukraine.”
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Ozzy Osbourne is expected to arrive in Kyiv in late September 2025. More details on the visit and performance to be announced in the coming weeks.
