Sharon Osbourne has addressed her absence from the unveiling of Ozzy Osbourne’s statue at Hellfest in Clisson, France. She cited an unexpected hospital visit earlier in the week as the reason for missing the significant tribute to her late husband.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the 73-year-old expressed her regrets about missing the event. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be at Hellfest for the unveiling of Ozzy’s statue. Unfortunately I had an unexpected trip to the hospital earlier in the week,” Sharon wrote. “A big thank you Olivier Garnier, Ben Barbaud and everyone at Hellfest. Special thank you to Philippe Pasqua for the absolutely stunning statue!”
The statue unveiling marked a poignant moment for the heavy metal community. It honored one of the genre’s most iconic and influential figures. The monument, created by renowned sculptor Philippe Pasqua, stands as a permanent tribute at the festival entrance.
The six-meter bronze statue was unveiled at Hellfest 2026, one of Europe’s premier heavy metal festivals. The colossal monument represents a fitting honor for Ozzy Osbourne, whose contributions to rock and metal music have left an indelible mark on the industry. The statue’s placement at the festival entrance ensures it will greet attendees as a symbol of his enduring influence on the metal community.
Ozzy Osbourne passed away in July 2025 at the age of 76. He was one of the pioneers of heavy metal and among its most commercially successful and iconic artists. His career spanned decades, during which he became a cultural phenomenon through his music with Black Sabbath and his solo work, as well as his appearances in popular media. The statue serves as a permanent reminder of his extraordinary impact on rock and metal music history.
The unveiling ceremony brought together members of the Hellfest organization and the artistic team behind the monument. The festival’s organizers, including Olivier Garnier and Ben Barbaud, worked closely with sculptor Philippe Pasqua to create a tribute that captures the essence of the Prince of Darkness. Sharon’s gratitude toward all involved underscores the collaborative effort that went into honoring her husband’s legacy at one of the world’s most prestigious metal festivals.
