Rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, infamous for his 1982 arrest after urinating on a war memorial in Birmingham, has been honoured with a touching tribute at the very same site. The Black Sabbath frontman, now a beloved figure in the city, appears to have been fully forgiven for his past antics.
From Disgrace to Honour
Nearly four decades after the shocking incident that saw Osbourne arrested for public indecency, the memorial in Birmingham's Centenary Square has become an unlikely site of celebration for the Prince of Darkness' career. A new plaque now stands nearby, commemorating Osbourne's musical legacy and his deep connection to the city.
A Controversial Past
The original 1982 incident became one of Osbourne's most notorious moments, with the rock star allegedly drunkenly relieving himself on the memorial while wearing his wife Sharon's dress. The arrest only added to his wild man reputation, though Osbourne later claimed he had no memory of the event.
Birmingham Embraces Its Prodigal Son
Despite the controversy, Birmingham has fully embraced its most famous musical export in recent years. The city named a street in Osbourne's honour in 2018, and now this latest tribute at the war memorial site suggests any lingering resentment has faded.
The plaque's installation comes as Osbourne, now 74, has retired from touring due to health issues. Fans have flocked to see the new tribute, with many sharing photos on social media of the memorial and plaque side by side - a symbol of redemption for the heavy metal legend.
