Sharon Osbourne recently confirmed that Ozzfest, the iconic heavy metal festival, will make a comeback, with the late Black Sabbath frontman, Ozzy Osbourne, having given his blessing for the event to continue before his passing.
Osbourne revealed during a talk at the MIDEM 2026 conference in Cannes, France, that plans are underway for Ozzfest to return after a hiatus of nearly a decade. She reminisced about the last Ozzfest held in 2018, just before Ozzy fell ill, emphasizing that the event was never intended to cease.
Expressing her determination to honor Ozzy’s legacy, Osbourne envisions revitalizing Ozzfest as a larger-scale touring festival, staying true to its roots in heavy metal and hard rock while potentially incorporating diverse genres into the lineup.
The final Ozzfest in 2018, staged at the Forum in Los Angeles, featured electrifying performances by Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Zombie, Jonathan Davis, and Marilyn Manson. It marked a poignant moment for fans as Ozzy bid farewell with a memorable “Back to the Beginning” concert alongside Black Sabbath members in Birmingham before his passing in July 2025.
Ozzfest, which originally ran from 1996 to 2018, holds significant cultural importance in the realm of rock music festivals, serving as a platform for both established and emerging artists in the heavy metal scene.
Sharon Osbourne’s dedication to reviving Ozzfest underscores the enduring impact and influence of Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne in shaping the landscape of rock music. The festival’s return is poised to reignite the fervor of fans and musicians alike, paying homage to the legendary frontman and the band’s indelible mark on the genre.
Ozzfest’s revival not only celebrates the legacy of Black Sabbath but also highlights the ongoing relevance and demand for live music experiences that unite audiences in a shared celebration of rock culture.
As plans for Ozzfest’s comeback take shape, the anticipation among fans and industry insiders is palpable, reflecting the enduring appeal and timeless allure of the festival that has left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
With Sharon Osbourne at the helm, Ozzfest’s return promises to be a momentous occasion, a testament to the enduring spirit of rock music and a fitting tribute to the unparalleled legacy of Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne.