Ozzy Osbourne’s funeral cortege to pass through Birmingham for public tribute

Fans of heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne will have the opportunity to pay their respects during a procession through his hometown of Birmingham. The Black Sabbath singer’s body will be brought along Broad Street in the city centre starting at 13:00 BST on Wednesday. The cortege will travel to the Black Sabbath Bridge and bench, where thousands of fans have left flowers, messages, and tributes. Local musicians Bostin’ Brass will accompany the procession, which has been organized in collaboration with Osbourne’s family who are covering the costs. The event follows Osbourne’s death at age 76 on 22 July, just weeks after Black Sabbath’s farewell concert. The Lord Mayor of Birmingham emphasized Ozzy’s impact as a city icon, stating that he put Birmingham and Aston on the map. Fans have come from as far away as Mexico, the USA, Poland, and Greece to pay tribute. Broad Street will be closed early Wednesday for the event, with public transport diverted. Those unable to attend can view a live stream online. Additional tributes in the city include murals, a statue, and a pub recognized as the birthplace of heavy metal. A petition to rename Birmingham Airport after Osbourne has garnered over 46,000 signatures. The city and Osbourne’s family honor his legacy through this solemn event and continued exhibitions.