Ozzy Osbourne gave fans the devastating news that he has been forced to cancel his headlining set at the inaugural Power Trip Festival this October due to his ongoing health issues.
The Black Sabbath rocker, 74, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2003, but only went public with it in 2020 during an interview on Good Morning America. He has since been quite open with his fans about his health battle – as has his wife, Sharon Osbourne – and was also quite open about his “painful” decision to cancel his performance due to his body not quite being “ready” yet.
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Ozzy Osbourne Cancels Power Trip Festival Performance
The "Crazy Train" musician was set to headline the second night of Power Trip on October 7th, which would have been his first full gig since New Year’s Eve in 2018. The festival is also expecting performances from rock icons such as Metallica, Guns N' Roses (Carrie Underwood's fave!) AC/DC, and Iron Maiden, among others, including Judas Priest, who have been brought in to replace Ozzy Osbourne following his decision to pull out.
Osbourne took to Instagram on Monday, July 10th to give fans hoping to see him perform this year the heartbreaking news that he will no longer be able to do so, despite his determination to get back on stage. And although he won't be performing in October 2023, he still seems to be optimistic about returning to the stage in 2024!
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Ozzy Osbourne's 'Painful' Instagram Message To Fans
"As painful as this is, I’ve had to make the decision to bow out of performing on Power Trip in October," he wrote on Instagram. "My original plan was to return to the stage in the summer of 2024, and when the offer to do this show came in, I optimistically moved forward."
He added: "Unfortunately, my body is telling me that I’m just not ready yet and I am much too proud to have the first show that I do in nearly five years be half-[expletive.] The band that will be replacing me on Power Trip will be announced shortly." He went on to say that the band, who we now know to be Judas Priest, "are personal friends of mine and I can promise that you will not be disappointed."
Ozzy concluded his heartfelt Instagram message by saying: "Above all, I want to thank my fans, my band, and my crew for their unconditional loyalty and continual support. I love you all and I will see you soon."
Fan Comments
As disappointed as his fans were by the announcement, they let him know that his health was the number one priority, and reiterated that they supported him no matter what!
"No need to apologize sir, you’ve provided many years of entertainment. Take care of yourself," one fan commented. "Health above all else, Ozz," wrote another, adding, "Take all the time you need, we understand. And if retirement is in your plans, no one will complain. You've been putting your heart and soul into it for over 50 years." "Take care of yourself Ozzy we’ll see you soon," said another supportive fan.
