Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has announced that he is now using a wheelchair due to drastically reduced mobility, but he insists he has no plans to retire from public life or give up drumming.
The 78-year-old musician took to Instagram on Thursday morning (July 9) to share the news, posting a photo of himself smiling while seated in his mobility wheelchair with one foot on the ground. In the caption, titled 'Something new to let you know about,' Ward wrote: 'I'm announcing today somewhat sadly but nonetheless truthfully, that I've reached a place where publicly more and more I need to use a wheelchair, mostly in airports, or public events. I can still walk, let there be no doubt, but I can't walk very far without needing to rest, meaning I need to sit down.'
Ward's Health Update and Reassurance to Fans
Ward explained that he started using the wheelchair about 18 months ago, primarily in airports. He noted that he turned 78 on May 5, 2026, and described himself as a former long-distance walker who has walked in many parts of the world. 'I'm still a drummer. I can still play pretty good for 78 years old,' he wrote.
The drummer was quick to reassure fans that his zest for life is far from over. 'I'm not in retirement or ill or giving up, or any of those thoughts that ignite when we see people in wheelchairs,' he declared. 'I'm making myself public and transparent about my new transport, and letting you know I'm OK.' He described the wheelchair as simply 'catching a ride' to where he needs to go.
Commitment to Music and Fan Reactions
Ward defiantly stated he would not give up his passion for drumming or music. 'I'll keep rocking until I'm dead,' he wrote, urging fans to say hi if they spot him. The post garnered an outpouring of support from followers. One user commented: 'Those feet have been the backbone of heavy music for 57 years, they need – and deserve – a rest here and there.' Another added: 'You're nothing but the best, you rest all you want.' A third fan wrote: 'You will forever be a powerhouse, Bill – thank you for years of inspiration.'
Ward's Legacy with Black Sabbath
Bill Ward has been a staple of Black Sabbath for decades, playing drums on iconic tracks such as 'Paranoid' and 'Children of the Grave.' His last public appearance with the band was in 2025 at their farewell concert, which took place weeks before the death of his longtime bandmate Ozzy Osbourne.
