**Alice Cooper Stops Cardiff Concert in Reverence After Hearing About Ozzy Osbourne’s Passing**
There was a poignant moment at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on Tuesday evening, when legendary rocker Alice Cooper, just moments before taking to the stage, received the unexpected and sorrowful news that Ozzy Osbourne, one of heavy metal’s iconic pioneers, had died at the age of 76. The grief was palpable as Cooper shared the update not only with his band but also with thousands of fans anxiously awaiting the start of the show.
Ozzy Osbourne, known internationally as the “Prince of Darkness” and frontman of Black Sabbath, had been a central figure in the evolution of rock and heavy metal for over five decades. His death, confirmed by his family earlier that day, came shortly after his last ever public performance, a powerful reunion with Black Sabbath, which took place on 5 July. The loss marks the end of an era for the music industry, as fans and musicians alike grapple with the passing of a towering figure.
Before taking to the stage, Cooper recorded an emotional message for his broadcast programme, Alice’s Attic. In his remarks, Cooper reflected on the inevitable loss of musical giants, stating, “We all know that time is going to take us rockers, but when the giants fall, it’s really hard to accept.” He went on to emphasise the unique void left by Osbourne, saying, “Even though everybody saw it coming with Ozzy, it just took our breath away when it happened. Ozzy and family – your records, your music, your legend and all that you brought, the humour to the rock business – will live on forever, and we’re going to miss you man.”
On stage, the gravity of the moment was evident. Cooper dedicated the entire Cardiff performance to the memory of Osbourne, urging the audience to join him in celebrating the life and legacy of the late singer. Addressing the crowd, Cooper declared, “The whole world is mourning Ozzy tonight. Throughout his long and influential career, he earned immense respect from both his peers and his global fanbase, establishing himself as an unrivalled showman and cultural icon.”
He continued by highlighting Osbourne’s complex character, saying, “I always saw Ozzy as a cross between the prince of darkness, which the fans witnessed, and the court jester, a side known to his friends and family. He was, and will continue to be, a rock and roll legend. This community really does feel like a family, and this loss truly wounds us.”
Cooper also paid personal tribute, admitting regret at not forming a closer personal bond with Osbourne, and extended heartfelt condolences to the Osbourne family: “Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and the rest of the Ozzy brood – our prayers are with you tonight. A titanic boulder has crashed, but rock will roll on. From myself and the band, let’s all say goodnight to Ozzy.”
The crowd responded with overwhelming emotion, cheering and joining Cooper in a passionate chant of “Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!” Many fans could be seen making iconic ‘rock on’ hand gestures, creating a sea of tribute under the arena’s lights. Cooper and his band kneeled on stage, bowing in collective respect, painting a moving picture of the respect Osbourne commanded among fellow musicians.
Osbourne is survived by his wife Sharon, and their children Aimee, Kelly, and Jack, as well as Jessica and Louis, his children from a previous marriage. He leaves behind a musical and cultural legacy that few can rival. His final appearance with Black Sabbath not only marked the end of an era but also helped raise a remarkable £140 million for various charities, benefitting Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Cure Parkinson’s, and the Midlands-based Acorns Children’s Hospice.
As the global rock community reflects on a giant lost, the Cardiff concert will be remembered as a night when music fans, mourning as one, celebrated the enduring spirit of Ozzy Osbourne, a legend whose influence will continue to reverberate through generations. Such moments reinforce just how much music connects people – in both joy and sorrow.