Ozzy Osbourne's Black Sabbath bandmates lead tributes to star after death, aged 76

"It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning," they wrote on social media.

"He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time."

The message was signed off by Sharon, his wife of 43 years, as well as children Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.

The news comes less than three weeks after he performed his final concert with Black Sabbath, selling out Villa Park stadium in his hometown of Birmingham for an epic farewell show, Back to the Beginning, which saw metal legends from around the world come together.

Money raised from the show will be divided equally between charities Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorn Children’s Hospice – a children’s hospice supported by Aston Villa.

The event was held to celebrate Osbourne and the band – completed by Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi and Bill Ward – after 60 years together as a group.

Following news of his death, his bandmates led the tributes, with Butler writing: "Goodbye dear friend- thanks for all those years- we had some great fun. 4 kids from Aston- who’d have thought, eh?

"So glad we got to do it one last time, back in Aston. Love you."

Iommi wrote: "I just can’t believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park.

"It’s just such heartbreaking news that I can’t really find the words, there won’t ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother.

"My thoughts go out to Sharon and all the Osbourne family. Rest in peace Oz."

Meanwhile, Ward shared a picture of them during their teen years, adding: "Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, you’re forever in my heart.

"Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever."

Fellow music icons quickly followed suit, with Sir Elton John writing: "So sad to hear the news of @ozzyosbourne passing away. He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods - a true legend.

"He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love."

Yungblud, real name Dominic Harrison, reflected on his close friendship with the rocker, which included him gifting a specially-made cross necklace to Osbourne on the day of Back to the Beginning.

Sharing a picture of the moment, he wrote: "I didn’t think you would leave so soon the last time we met you were so full of life and your laugh filled up the room. But as it is written with legends, they seem to know the things that we don’t.

"I will never forget you - you will be in every single note I sing and with me every single time I walk on stage. Your cross around my neck is the most precious thing I own.

"You asked me once if there was anything you could do for me and as I said then and as I will say now for all of us the music was enough.

"You took us on your adventure - an adventure that started it all. I am truly heartbroken. You were the greatest of all time."

Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale wrote: "RIP OZZY - a great man -a true legend - i met ozzy through jack just a few times but he was so warm and kind and funny and i love that memory .sending much love to his family at this difficult time 🖤. Rest in power."

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