MTV has announced that rock and roll legend Ozzy Osbourne will be presented with the Global Icon Award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. The ceremony, set for Sunday, September 14 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, will spotlight Osbourne’s remarkable five-decade career, one that has defined the sound of heavy metal and left a lasting imprint on artists across generations. The honor is meant to recognize not just his music but also the larger cultural footprint he has carved out over the years.
Key Takeaways
• Ozzy Osbourne is the recipient of the 2025 MTV VMA Global Icon Award.
• The award highlights his career with Black Sabbath as well as his solo success.
• The 2025 VMAs will take place in Brooklyn, New York.
• A special multi-artist tribute is planned for the night.
Often referred to as the “Prince of Darkness,” Osbourne first rose to fame in the 1970s as the frontman of Black Sabbath. The band’s ominous and heavy sound marked a sharp break from the rock music of its era and essentially gave birth to heavy metal as a genre. After parting ways with the band, Osbourne forged a solo path that proved just as influential, with anthems like Crazy Train and No More Tears cementing his reputation as a singular force in music. His stage presence, unpredictable and theatrical at times, combined with his unmistakable vocals, made him one of rock’s most unforgettable figures.
MTV executives described the choice as unanimous. “Ozzy’s influence is immeasurable. From his early days with Black Sabbath to his iconic solo work, he has been a true original,” an MTV representative said. “He has entertained, challenged, and inspired generations of fans and musicians. This award is a celebration of his unique legacy.”
The ceremony is expected to feature a major tribute with artists from different genres taking on some of Osbourne’s best-known songs. While the official list of performers has not yet been released, rumors point to names like Post Malone, who has previously collaborated with Ozzy, joining in the celebration.
For Osbourne, this recognition comes during a period when he has spoken candidly about his health struggles, including his battle with Parkinson’s disease. His openness and resilience, however, have only deepened the connection with his fans. In many ways, the award feels like a nod not only to his musical achievements but also to his ability to endure and continue inspiring.
For fans far beyond the United States, including in India, this is also a proud moment. Rock and metal communities there have long held Osbourne and Black Sabbath as touchstones, with many bands openly crediting them as foundational influences. The Global Icon Award, in that sense, celebrates not just an individual but a movement he helped spark worldwide.
The Osbourne family, including his wife and longtime manager Sharon, and their children Kelly and Jack, are expected to be present, turning the moment into something both professional and deeply personal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the MTV Global Icon Award?
The Global Icon Award is a special honor presented at the MTV Awards to artists who have made an outstanding impact on music, pop culture, and the global music scene throughout their careers.
Q. When did Ozzy Osbourne start his career?
Ozzy Osbourne’s career began in 1968 when he co-founded the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. He started his successful solo career in the late 1970s.
Q. Has Ozzy Osbourne won a VMA before?
While Ozzy Osbourne has been nominated for his solo work, his band Black Sabbath won a VMA in 1999 for Best Hard Rock Video for their song “Iron Man.”
Q. Who will perform in the tribute to Ozzy Osbourne?
The official list of performers for the tribute has not been released yet. However, there is speculation that artists who have collaborated with or been influenced by Ozzy will perform.
