Tony Iommi Shocked by Ozzy Osbourne’s Condition at Rehearsals
Tony Iommi has described his shock at Ozzy Osbourne’s physical condition when Black Sabbath’s original lineup gathered for the 2025 Back to the Beginning rehearsals. Iommi said Osbourne was carried into the room, but the singer still insisted on attempting his parts for the farewell performance.
What happened in the rehearsal room
Iommi initially declined the reunion because Black Sabbath had already completed The End Tour in 2016 and 2017. He changed his mind after learning that the event would raise money for charity, although he remained concerned because the band had not played with drummer Bill Ward for years. Iommi had not seen Osbourne since their performance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games closing ceremony, and Osbourne had been unable to travel from the United States because of his health. The guitarist said the musicians were stunned when Osbourne was carried into rehearsal, and he could not believe how much the singer’s condition had deteriorated. Iommi offered to run the entire set without vocals, but Osbourne insisted on trying and sang during part of the rehearsal. At other points, Iommi told him to rest while the musicians rehearsed the songs instrumentally with Ward. Even when told he could skip the following day, Osbourne might still attend. He ultimately performed seated in a chair at the front of the stage. A Back to the Beginning concert film was scheduled to reach cinemas on 28 October 2026.
What guitar players can learn from the reunion
Iommi’s account gives guitar players a rare look at the practical and emotional demands of a final performance by an original lineup. He stayed at the back of the stage to help keep Ward on track, which meant he saw little of Osbourne during the show. Playing also felt unfamiliar because Iommi was used to Osbourne moving around the stage, approaching him, and grabbing him during performances. Iommi described the concert as difficult and very hard to complete, but said he was glad the original band reunited for Osbourne and the fans. He also said the original Black Sabbath lineup would not perform together again.
(Compiled)