Jack Black’s Unforgettable “Mr. Crowley” Tribute Lights Up Ozzy Osbourne’s Historic Final Show
Jack Black’s tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at Black Sabbath’s “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert turned into a highlight that fans are already calling legendary. The event took place in Birmingham, the band’s birthplace, and brought together not just Sabbath’s classic lineup, but also a constellation of heavy metal’s brightest stars. The night was charged with emotion, as thousands gathered to witness the end of an era for the genre’s pioneers.
Ozzy Osbourne, despite his recent health struggles, was determined to deliver a performance to remember. Seated on a custom bat-shaped throne and surrounded by family, friends, and the extended Black Sabbath family, Ozzy’s spirit remained as fierce as ever. The show included powerhouse sets from Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Slayer, among others, each band bringing their own tribute to the icons that paved the way for them.
Jack Black, though unable to be there in person, left an indelible mark on the night through a pre-recorded performance that was played on massive screens across the stadium. Dressed in an over-the-top purple and blue outfit with “Ozzy” emblazoned on his chest, Black fully embodied the theatrical spirit that Ozzy himself brought to rock. His rendition of “Mr. Crowley,” a song dripping with occult mystique and razor-sharp riffs, was both a hilarious and genuinely powerful homage.
Black wasn’t alone in his tribute. He assembled a supergroup of next-generation rockers, including Roman Morello, the son of Tom Morello; Revel Ian, son of Anthrax’s Scott Ian; Japanese drumming prodigy Yoyoka Soma; and keyboardist Hugo Weiss. This young band, together with Black’s unstoppable energy, electrified “Mr. Crowley” and gave it a sense of renewal—proving that the spirit of metal is alive and ready for the future.
The performance video was a loving recreation of Ozzy’s iconic 1981 “Mr. Crowley” video, down to the flamboyant costumes and moody lighting. Jack Black’s comedic timing blended seamlessly with his musical chops, creating something that was both tongue-in-cheek and absolutely respectful. Fans who grew up with Tenacious D recognized the deep love Jack has for heavy metal, and this tribute was a culmination of a lifelong admiration.
“Mr. Crowley” itself carries a dark legacy, having originally appeared on Ozzy’s 1980 solo debut, Blizzard of Ozz. Inspired by the controversial figure Aleister Crowley, the song’s eerie lyrics and haunting keyboard intro set it apart as a metal classic. Jack Black’s version retained the song’s theatrical grandeur, with his signature high notes and wild facial expressions giving a fresh twist to a beloved staple.
As Jack’s video blazed across the screens, fans in the crowd could be seen singing along, some even wiping away tears. There was a sense that this wasn’t just a goodbye for Sabbath and Ozzy, but a celebration of the culture they created—a culture that includes comedy, irreverence, and a whole lot of heart. It’s rare to see a tribute that’s both hilarious and moving, but Jack Black nailed it.
The concert itself was far more than a nostalgia trip. With the announcement that proceeds would support Cure Parkinson’s and children’s hospitals, the night took on a deeply personal meaning for both Ozzy and his audience. Sharon Osbourne spoke openly about Ozzy’s health, adding a layer of reality to the music and making every performance feel like a gift.
It was especially poignant to see the children of rock legends stepping onto the stage, as if passing a torch across generations. Roman Morello and Revel Ian brought youthful swagger, while Yoyoka Soma’s drumming lit up the set. This connection between old and new gave fans hope that metal’s future is in good hands.
Ozzy’s own set was full of raw power. Classics like “Crazy Train,” “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” and, of course, “Paranoid” filled the stadium with energy. Even seated, Ozzy’s charisma dominated the room, and the chemistry with his Sabbath bandmates felt as tight as ever. Every note, every lyric, seemed to echo with decades of history.
After Jack Black’s video performance, the show moved toward a stunning finale. Fireworks exploded over Villa Park, and the original Black Sabbath lineup stood together one last time for a bow. The air was thick with both celebration and a little bit of sadness, as fans realized they were witnessing the closing of a monumental chapter in rock history.
For those watching from around the world, the livestream gave a sense of being part of something historic. Jack Black’s “Mr. Crowley” performance, beamed to millions of screens, reminded viewers everywhere just how much Ozzy has inspired fans and musicians alike. The blend of respect and humor that Jack brought was exactly what the night needed.
Reflecting on Ozzy’s journey from Birmingham’s gritty streets to global superstardom, the night felt like a circle completed. The connection between Sabbath’s past and rock’s future has never been clearer, especially with new blood taking the stage and a comedic legend like Jack Black showing how deep the love for this music runs.
In the end, the final Ozzy Osbourne performance wasn’t just about goodbyes. It was about gratitude, legacy, and the power of music to bring people together. Jack Black’s “Mr. Crowley” tribute is sure to be remembered as one of the most heartfelt—and entertaining—salutes the Prince of Darkness has ever received.