The Prince of Darkness, who died on July 22 at the age of 76, was the godfather of Wylde’s oldest son

In an intimate and heartfelt revelation, Zakk Wylde, the legendary guitarist who was a longtime collaborator with Ozzy Osbourne, opened up about the final text message he received from the Prince of Darkness before his death on July 22, 2025.

Wylde’s emotional account sheds light on the deep bond they shared, not only as bandmates but as family, and offers a poignant glimpse into the last moments they connected.

The last time Wylde heard from Osbourne was shortly after Black Sabbath’s historic final performance at Villa Park in England on July 5, 2025. That night marked the end of an era for the iconic rock band, whose influence shaped heavy metal music for decades.

In an exclusive interview, Wylde recounted the chaos backstage after the show, recalling, “Everybody and their mother were in the backstage dressing room and I just wanted to give him a break.”

Wylde didn’t get to speak to Ozzy that night, expecting to catch up later, but that moment never came.

Instead, the final communication came through a text message that deeply moved Wylde. Ozzy’s message read, “Zakky, sorry, it was like a madhouse back there. I didn’t see you. Thanks for everything.”

The simple yet powerful words carried the weight of their long friendship and partnership. “It was just us talking, saying, ‘I love you, buddy.’ That was it,” Wylde shared, visibly touched.

These words underscore the closeness they had cultivated over years of working together, performing on some of the biggest stages in the world.

Zakk Wylde’s relationship with Osbourne extended far beyond music. The rock icon was the godfather to Wylde’s oldest son, a testament to the personal trust and affection between the two families.

Wylde elaborated on their bond, explaining that Ozzy and his wife Sharon often relied on him and his family not just as bandmates but as close friends.

“Whether I was playing with him or not, if Sharon called me and my wife up and said, ‘Guys, can you watch the house while we’re away on a business trip?’ I’d do it.

It’s like, ‘If you need me to bring milk and eggs over, I’ll do it,’” Wylde said, revealing the deep sense of family responsibility they felt for each other.

Wylde’s connection to Osbourne began in 1987 when he joined Black Sabbath as the band’s guitarist. He played an essential role during the late ‘80s and throughout the ‘90s, contributing to Osbourne’s signature sound with his powerful riffs and virtuoso skills.

Even after periods apart, Wylde returned to support Osbourne on several occasions, including the legendary No More Tours II farewell tour that launched in 2018, which marked Osbourne’s retirement from live performances.

The final Black Sabbath concert in July was a bittersweet milestone. Wylde remembered that evening as “business as usual,” but with a heightened sense of importance: “The priority at the time was making sure that Oz was okay.”

Seeing Ozzy on stage that night was a deeply emotional moment for Wylde, who said, “It was definitely pretty amazing. Seeing Oz onstage when Sabbath got done, that’s the last time I saw him.”

Throughout their decades-long friendship, Wylde witnessed Ozzy’s journey through triumphs and struggles, watching the Prince of Darkness face personal demons with courage and resilience.

From his early days with Black Sabbath to his solo career and Hall of Fame induction in 2024, Ozzy maintained a larger-than-life presence in the world of rock and heavy metal, influencing countless musicians and fans alike.

Ozzy Osbourne’s death on July 22 marked the end of a legendary life and career. He passed away at the age of 76, surrounded by family and love, as confirmed by his loved ones in a heartfelt statement.

“It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,” the family said, asking for privacy during this difficult time.

The news sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and celebrities worldwide, reflecting the deep impact Ozzy had on music and culture.

His legacy as the “Prince of Darkness” and the godfather of heavy metal remains indelible, with his unique voice, charismatic stage presence, and unapologetic spirit inspiring generations.

Zakk Wylde’s reflections on their last text message capture a touching farewell between two rock legends who shared more than just music—they shared brotherhood.

Wylde’s words reveal a side of Ozzy often hidden from the public eye: a man who cared deeply for his friends and family, even amid the whirlwind of fame and the demands of an extraordinary career.

As the world continues to mourn Ozzy Osbourne, stories like Wylde’s remind us of the human connections behind the rock star persona.

The final message, “Thanks for everything,” echoes not just as a sign of gratitude but as a heartfelt goodbye, immortalizing their friendship in the annals of rock history.

The impact of Ozzy’s passing will resonate far beyond the stage. For Wylde, and many others who knew him, it is a personal loss, one marked by the enduring spirit of camaraderie, music, and love that defined their extraordinary lives.