Breaking; Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward Op...read more

Breaking; Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward Op…read more

Sabbath played what would ultimately be their last public show, a four-song farewell set called “Back to the Beginning” at Villa Park in their hometown. Over 40,000 fans attended, with millions more watching online, as the original lineup reunited on stage for the first time in 20 years. Just weeks later, on July 22, frontman Ozzy Osbourne passed away at age 76 after years of health struggles.

Drummer Bill Ward, who had been mostly absent from the band’s recent tours due to health issues, returned for the special performance. Speaking recently on the LA Radio Sessions with DJ Mike Stark, Ward shared what was on his mind as the show came to an end. “All I could think about was stepping off the drum riser to see if Ozzy was okay,” he said, highlighting his deep concern for his longtime friend over any sense of celebration.

Gratitude Above All

Ward explained that after checking on Ozzy, he wanted to connect with everyone who made the night possible. “I went out and applauded the audience. My family was there, and I clapped for them… I also thanked the crew and everyone around me on stage. It was really about honoring all the people who had been listening and supporting us,” he said.

He also spoke about why the band stuck to four iconic songs War Pigs, N.I.B., Iron Man, and Paranoid. “We tried other tracks, but they didn’t quite click. We just wanted to play the most definitive songs that really worked for all of us.”

Capturing the Moment Forever

The farewell show will be featured in an upcoming concert film, Back to the Beginning: Ozzy’s Final Bow, set for release in early 2026. The movie will include never-before-seen footage and personal reflections from the band, giving fans a deeper look at the historic night.

A Bittersweet Ending

Ward had previously missed out on Black Sabbath’s “The End Tour” in 2017 due to contractual disagreements. In interviews, Ozzy later admitted he wished Ward had been part of that tour. Last year, Ward had hinted at wanting to reunite one last time, saying, “I still love playing the old songs. I’d happily do it one final time.”

Osbourne’s death just days after the Villa Park show made Ward’s reflections even more poignant. Despite his declining health, Ozzy had performed seated on a bat-themed throne, determined to give fans one final memorable night. His family later said he had wanted his funeral to be a small, joyful gathering rather than a somber event.

Ward ended the night by applauding everyone on stage and behind the scenes. “I just wanted to thank everybody… I love them very much,” he said.

Following Ozzy’s passing, Ward paid tribute online, writing: “Where will I find you now? In my memories… you’ll always be in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and the family. Rest in peace. Never goodbye. Thank you forever.”

The Back to the Beginning concert attended by about 45,000 fans and featuring guests like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses raised around £140 million for Parkinson’s research and children’s charities.

Ward’s words remind fans that beyond the heavy riffs and groundbreaking music, Black Sabbath’s legacy is also about friendship, gratitude, and the bonds formed over more than 50 years together.