Jelly Roll’s Emotional Confession: The Truth About Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Days

In the wake of Ozzy Osbourne’s passing on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76, the world mourns the loss of a heavy metal pioneer whose haunting vocals and larger-than-life persona defined a genre. Yet, just two days after his death, a poignant revelation from country-rap star Jelly Roll, a close friend and self-described “spiritual brother” to Osbourne, has cast new light on the rock icon’s final days, unveiling a deeply personal struggle kept hidden from fans.

Jelly Roll, known for his raw honesty and soulful music, shared an emotional statement that has left fans reeling. “He didn’t want anyone to worry,” Jelly Roll said in a heartfelt message posted on social media. “But now that he’s gone, I need everyone to know the truth.” His words hint at a private battle Osbourne fought, one marked not only by his well-documented health struggles with Parkinson’s disease but also by an emotional weight he carried for those he loved most.

Osbourne, the Birmingham-born “Prince of Darkness,” had been open about his physical challenges in recent years, particularly following a 2003 ATV accident and a Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2020. His final performance on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham with Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward was a triumphant yet bittersweet farewell. Seated on a throne due to his mobility issues, Osbourne told the crowd of 42,000, “You’ve no idea how I feel—thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

But according to Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, there was more to Osbourne’s story than the public knew. The two forged an unlikely bond over the years, with Jelly Roll citing Osbourne’s resilience and authenticity as an inspiration for his own music and life. Their connection deepened during Osbourne’s 2024 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, where Jelly Roll performed a cover of “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” Though the performance drew mixed reactions, with some fans calling it “out of his lane,” Jelly Roll’s admiration for Osbourne was undeniable.

In his confession, Jelly Roll revealed that Osbourne had been grappling with profound emotional pain, particularly around his family. “Ozzy carried the weight of wanting to protect everyone—Sharon, his kids, his fans,” Jelly Roll shared. “He didn’t want his struggles to overshadow the love and music he gave the world.” This emotional burden, coupled with his physical decline, painted a picture of a man who, despite his “Prince of Darkness” persona, was deeply introspective and protective of those closest to him.

Osbourne’s legacy is monumental. As the frontman of Black Sabbath, he helped birth heavy metal with albums like Paranoid and Black Sabbath, selling over 75 million records worldwide. His solo career, with hits like “Crazy Train,” further cemented his status as a rock icon. Beyond music, his reality show The Osbournes revealed a softer, comedic side, endearing him to a new generation.

Jelly Roll’s tribute underscores Osbourne’s humanity. “He was a fighter, but he was also a friend who loved deeply,” he said. “His truth was in his heart, not just his music.” As tributes pour in from the likes of Metallica, Elton John, and Ronnie Wood, it’s clear Osbourne’s impact transcends genres.

This revelation is not just a story of loss but a testament to Osbourne’s courage and love. As Jelly Roll put it, “Ozzy’s gone, but his truth lives on.” The world now mourns not only a rock legend but a man who, in silence, carried the weight of his love for others.