Ozzy Osbourne Doc Pulled: BBC's Shock Last-Minute Schedule Cancellation Leaves Fans Mystified

Published 3 months ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
Ozzy Osbourne Doc Pulled: BBC's Shock Last-Minute Schedule Cancellation Leaves Fans Mystified

A planned BBC documentary titled "Ozzy Osbourne: Coming Home" was abruptly pulled from its scheduled broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer just hours before its anticipated air date of Monday, August 18. This intimate film was intended to chronicle the final three years of Ozzy Osbourne's life, documenting his and Sharon's planned return to the UK after 25 years in Los Angeles, and his preparations for a poignant farewell performance.

The documentary, described as a moving and inspirational account, evolved significantly during its three years of filming. Initially pitched around 2022 as a reality series similar to their beloved MTV show "The Osbournes," called "Home to Roost," its focus shifted as Ozzy's health deteriorated due to Parkinson's disease and a series of neck and spine surgeries. The film showcases the unwavering strength of Ozzy and Sharon's love, their children Kelly and Jack's devotion, and the family's acceptance of Ozzy's declining health.

Despite being in constant pain and requiring round-the-clock nursing care, Ozzy was determined to perform one last time for his fans. Sources revealed that he received singing lessons almost daily in preparation for what would be his final show. His resolve stemmed from a deep desire to thank his fans who had provided him and Sharon with an extraordinary life. The filming itself was frequently interrupted due to Ozzy's health, leading to many delays in the production process. A BBC spokesperson confirmed the film has "moved in the schedules" and that new premiere details would be shared later, emphasizing its inspirational and poignant nature.

Ozzy's final gig took place at Villa Park in Birmingham, his home city, just weeks before his death at age 76. His doctors had finally approved his travel to the UK for this momentous event. On the night of the show, Ozzy emotionally addressed the packed crowd, expressing his gratitude: "I don't know what to say, man, I've been laid up for like six years... Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You're all f***ing special." He performed five solo songs, concluding with "Crazy Train," amidst a shower of confetti. After a brief intermission, he reunited with Black Sabbath for the first time in 20 years, performing their greatest hits, including a powerful rendition of "Paranoid."

In his last ever interview, Ozzy described this "final encore" as meaning "everything," a chance to thank his fans. He specifically chose Birmingham for his final performance, recalling childhood memories of watching football at the Aston Villa stadium. Amidst the grandeur of the final performance, his daughter Kelly Osbourne also shared a personal moment, revealing her engagement to boyfriend Sid Wilson backstage at the gig.

The documentary reportedly features scenes reflecting the family's acceptance of the inevitable, with Kelly poignantly commenting that "Iron man wasn't really made of iron." Executive producers Ben Wicks and Colin Barr highlighted Ozzy's enduring sense of mischief and honesty, but stressed that his intense love for his exceptional family shone most brightly throughout the film, as they stood by him through everything.

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