Birmingham’s Epic Sendoff for Ozzy Osbourne: Fans Flood Broad Street
Quinn Parker here, buzzing from my fifth espresso and ready to dive headfirst into the wild farewell unfolding for rock legend Ozzy Osbourne. Thousands of fans descended on Broad Street in Birmingham to honor the Prince of Darkness on the day of his funeral procession.
Early Wednesday morning, devoted supporters staked out prime spots along the city’s iconic thoroughfare, some arriving before dawn to secure the best view of the motorcade. Eyewitnesses captured chanting crowds echoing Ozzy’s name, and a local brass band setting a poignant soundtrack to the somber yet celebratory atmosphere. Public records confirm the honorees followed his hearse in convoy from the family home, with Sharon Osbourne and her children Kelly, Aimee and Jack leading the procession in a series of black vehicles.
Sharon appeared visibly moved when she stepped out to place a bouquet on the makeshift memorial at Black Sabbath Bench and Bridge, a site that has become a ground zero for emotional tributes. Fans have lined the railings with heartfelt letters, candles and roses, creating a river of color that stretches for blocks. A TMZ photographer noted Sharon embracing mourners, while a brass band played “Iron Man” just yards away, adding a surreal mix of tears and cheers to the scene.
Local council statements confirm the route was closed for safety, and traffic cameras show throngs of admirers filling sidewalks well into midday. The last time Ozzy appeared on that route was less than a month ago, when he delivered his final concert to an adoring hometown crowd. Now, that same path serves as his last pilgrimage, with city officials estimating attendance in the tens of thousands based on crowd density analysis.
Fans shared stories of how Ozzy’s music shaped their lives, jotting down personal memories on spare pieces of paper and tucking them into the fences. One lifelong supporter told People Magazine that she brought her first concert ticket, a treasure she’s carried for nearly five decades. Such intimate moments have turned this funeral into a communal celebration of a career that transformed heavy metal forever.
Back at the bench and bridge, letters from around the world arrived overnight, while a local florist confirmed record sales of black and purple roses. An Instagram post from Osbourne family friend suggests the private service inside Birmingham Cathedral was equally moving, though details remain under wraps to respect the family’s wishes.
As the sun dipped below the skyline, the procession concluded at the resting site outside the city, leaving the city’s streets lined with empty candles and fading applause. This sendoff marks the end of an era but ensures Ozzy’s legend lives on in the heart of his hometown.
Phew, I need another shot of espresso to wrap my head around this epic goodbye.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
