Ozzy Osbourne announces retirement from touring and cancels remaining 2023 dates

Virgin Radio

1 Feb 2023, 08:18

Rock icon Ozzy Osbourne has announced he’s stepping away from touring for good. 

The Black Sabbath frontman was due to be on the road for No More Tours 2 with Judas Priest across Europe and the UK from May, with the original dates moving from 2019, 2020 and 2022.

Ozzy’s tour dates had been pushed back due to health concerns and the coronavirus pandemic, with his 2019 touring dates postponed as he recovered from surgery and a fall at his Los Angeles home. 

The Prince of Darkness recently had another major surgery, and in an emotional statement to fans, Ozzy confirmed his health and subsequent operations have forced him to call time on his touring days. 

Speaking on Twitter, Ozzy wrote: “This is probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to share with my loyal fans. As you may all know, four years ago, this month, I had a major accident, where I damaged my spine. My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage. 

“My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy sessions, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak.”

He continued: “I am honestly humbled by the way you’ve all patiently held onto your tickets for all this time, but in all good conscience, I have now come to the realisation that I’m not physically capable of doing my European/UK tour dates, as I know I couldn’t deal with the travel required. Believe me when I say that the thought of disappointing my fans really F**** ME UP, more than you will ever know. 

“Never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way. My team is currently coming up with ideas for where I will able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country.”

He ended his heartfelt message: “I want to thank my family….my band….my crew….my longtime friends, Judas Priest, and of course, my fans for their endless dedication, loyalty and support, and for giving me the life that I never ever dreamed I would have. I love you all…”

Ozzy then confirmed that refunds would be available to those who had held onto their tickets. 

The rocker has suffered with a number of health problems over recent years, having only shared his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2020. 

Despite his health worries, Ozzy released his 13th studio album, Patient Number 9, in September, and was last seen performing at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in August.