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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Rose Hill

Ozzy Osbourne forced into retirement as he cancels tour with heartbreaking update on health

Ozzy Osbourne has cancelled his UK and Europe tour after saying that he is "not physically capable" of performing.

The Black Sabbath legend, 74, recently had extensive spinal surgery following a fall at his home in 2019, which had further aggravated injuries froim a near-fatal quad bike crash in 2003.

Announcing the news to fans, Ozzy said that it was "probably one of the hardest things [he's] ever had to share" and that he "never would have imagined that [his] touring days would have ended this way".

Explaining that his body is "still physically weak" and shared his despair at "disappointing" fans.

Ozzy Osbourne has cancelled his UK and Europe tour (Jordan Strauss/AP/REX/Shutterstock)

In a statement, he wrote: "This is probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to share with my loyal fans. As you may 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 realisation 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 F***S ME UP, more than you will ever know.

Ozzy said that he couldn't have imagined his touring career would end like this (Getty Images for iHeartMedia)
He shared a statement with fans (Instagram)

"Never would I have imagined 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 dreamed that I would have.

"I love you all..."

Fans rushed to share their sadness at the news but also wish Ozzy well, with one writing: "Rest up, Ozzy. You’ve got nothing to prove at this point. You owe your fans nothing. We will consider you a legend regardless of your future touring abilities."

While another commented: "May you have a speedy recovery Sir. As for a venue perhaps like jimmy buffet and several other artist you could build a place where you could just play most of the time and people could come and see you a Prince of Darkness Bar or Pub."

A third wrote: "I’ve been fortunate to see you perform live a handful of times over the years. Your endurance in the face of increasing physical challenges is inspirational. However painful the decision, it’s clearly the right one to preserve your health. No More Tears, keep barking at the moon."

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