Ozzy Osbourne is done touring effective immediately. The legendary rocker issued a statement today revealing that health issues stemming from a spinal injury suffered four years ago have led him to “come to the realization that I’m not physically capable of doing my upcoming Europe/UK tour dates.” Ozzy’s No More Tours 2 trek with Judas Priest was originally slated for 2019. The run was pushed back to 2023 after multiple postponements due to his physical issues and the pandemic. Now, the tour has been canceled outright.
“Never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way,” the Black Sabbath singer wrote. He did include a hopeful note in the statement about his future. “My team is currently coming up with ideas for where I will be able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country,” added Ozzy.
“My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage,” the 74-year-old stated of the past few years. “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.” Osbourne also has been battling Parkinson’s disease.
The Rock & Roll Hall Of Famer performed at two sporting events last year. Osbourne, who released the new studio album Patient Number 9 in September 2022, played its title track and “Crazy Train” at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles on September 8 during halftime of the NFL season opener. He also reunited with fellow Black Sabbath co-founder Tony Iommi at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games for takes on “Iron Man” and “Paranoid” on August 8.
Osbourne and Judas Priest were expected to start the tour in Helsinki on May 3. Refunds are available via point of purchase.
Read the full statement from Ozzy Osborne below:
“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.
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 realization that I’m not physically capable of doing my upcoming 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 FUCKS 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 be able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country.
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…”
