PETA’s Ozzy Tribute Is Pure Chaos — And Honestly, He’d Probably Love It

via Front Row Rock Jams / YouTube
Ozzy Osbourne may have built his legend on shock and spectacle, but his legacy includes a gentler, lesser-known side — one that championed animal welfare. Upon his passing, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) chose to spotlight his advocacy for cats and his outspoken opposition to cruel practices like declawing.
“Ozzy Osbourne was a legend and a provocateur,” PETA wrote in a statement, “but PETA will remember the ‘Prince of Darkness’ most fondly for the gentle side he showed to animals — most recently cats, by using his fame to decry painful, crippling declawing mutilations.”
From Wild Antics to Animal Advocacy
Osbourne’s transformation from infamous rocker to animal rights advocate is nothing short of remarkable. On January 20, 1982, he infamously bit the head off a bat on stage, later claiming he thought it was a rubber prop. While the incident haunted his reputation for decades, Osbourne eventually embraced animal welfare with genuine passion.
He went on to work closely with PETA and even became a poster figure for the organization. His evolution reflected not just personal growth, but a deep concern for animal suffering, particularly among domestic pets.
A Family United for Animals
His efforts were not his alone. “Ozzy may have been the singer,” PETA added, “but his wife, Sharon, and his daughter, Kelly, were of one voice when it meant protecting animals.” The family’s collective advocacy amplified their reach and impact, drawing more attention to neglected animal issues.
Osbourne never lost his signature humor. He once sold plush bats with detachable heads — a tongue-in-cheek nod to his past — and a video clip shows him affectionately cursing at his cat, revealing the tenderness behind the persona.
“Ozzy will be missed by animal advocates the world over,” PETA concluded.