Honoring the Legacy of Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV VMAs

Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness,” was memorialized with a heartfelt rock tribute at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. The segment featured performances by Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, punk artist Yungblud, and guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, all paying homage to the rock icon.

The tribute commenced with a touching montage introduced by Ozzy’s son, Jack, and his four daughters, all dressed in “Ozzy” shirts, sharing memories through a medley of photos and videos.

Yungblud took the stage, channeling Ozzy’s signature call, before performing his versions of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” and Ozzy’s solo hit “Crazy Train.” He later joined Tyler and Perry for a stirring rendition of “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” to thunderous applause.

Prior to the show, several celebrities, including Taylor Momsen from The Pretty Reckless, paid their respects on the red carpet. Momsen, who admired Ozzy deeply and felt connected to his music, expressed her excitement about the Osbourne family’s appearance that evening.

Guitarist Nuno Bettencourt reflected on Ozzy’s influence, describing him as a “godfather” of rock and metal, whose impact on culture and music spans generations. Yungblud also paid tribute by wearing a cross necklace gifted to him by Ozzy before his death.

Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at age 76, was surrounded by family at the time of his death in England. His final performance was the Black Sabbath farewell concert, marking the end of an era. Musicians and fans alike mourned his loss, remembering his profound influence on the music world.

His family later held an emotional funeral procession through Birmingham, laying him to rest. Each family member paid tribute through symbolic items: Sharon wore Ozzy’s wedding ring, Aimee displayed a bat brooch, Kelly sported her father’s iconic blue glasses, and Jack chose a cross pendant necklace.