On what would have been Ozzy Osbourne‘s 77th birthday, the late icon’s family has returned to his hometown of Birmingham to accept a major civic honor in his memory. Members of the Osbourne family—though the specific attendees were not publicly confirmed ahead of the event—are in the city today, Wednesday, December 3, to formally receive the posthumous Lord Mayor’s Award.
The visit comes just months after the legendary singer passed away on July 22, 2025, following his historic final performance at Villa Park Stadium earlier that month.
The Lord Mayor’s Award is considered one of the highest civic accolades Birmingham can bestow, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement or exceptional service to the city. It serves as a formal recognition of Ozzy‘s immense contribution to Birmingham’s cultural identity and his global impact as a musician.
In a statement regarding their return, the Osbourne family expressed their gratitude for the recognition.
“We are deeply touched to receive this award in honour of Ozzy,” the family said (as reported by BirminghamLive). “He was so loved by the people of Birmingham so it is great to come back and see the impact he has had in his hometown and how he continues to inspire generations of Brummies’ and fans across the world. I would like to thank the Lord Mayor for this special recognition.”
During the private ceremony, the award will be presented by The Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Ken Wood. Additionally, the current Lord Mayor, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, will present the family with Books of Condolence, which have been signed by thousands of fans during the city’s period of mourning.
“Ozzy was and always will be a proud and much missed son of Birmingham,” Councillor Iqbal stated. “Having achieved worldwide success, he never forgot his Brummie roots, so I am honoured to present the award to his family in a fitting tribute of everything he has done for our city. Ozzy forever!”
Since Ozzy‘s passing, Birmingham has seen an influx of tributes. Approximately 400,000 visitors have attended the “Working Class Hero” exhibit at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, many queuing to sign the condolence books that will now be handed over to the family. The Lord Mayor was also a key figure during the funeral procession that traveled down Broad Street to the Black Sabbath Bridge earlier this year, where fans left floral tributes on the bench commemorating the band.
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