Zak Starkey has revealed his one lasting regret following the death of Ozzy Osbourne, disclosing that he turned down an offer to play with Black Sabbath. The drummer, son of Beatles icon Ringo Starr, shared a tribute to the rock legend on social media alongside an email he received from Ozzy's wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne.
The email, sent ahead of Black Sabbath's 2013 tour, invited Zak to join the band for album sessions and a performance at Lollapalooza. Sharon wrote: "Zak, Black Sabbath is headlining Download on June 10 and then Lollapalooza in August. The guys need a drummer for their album, which will be recorded in September with Rick Rubin producing. We would probably need you for 2-3 weeks for the album. Also, they need a drummer to play at Lollapalooza which is on August 3 in Chicago." She added a humorous line: "Also, Ozzy wants to have sex with you while he is singing 'Iron Man'. Big Kiss, Sharon."
Despite the offer, Zak declined due to his commitments with The Who. He had performed with the band at the 2012 Olympics closing ceremony in London and was part of their Quadrophenia and More tour spanning 2012 and 2013.
Reflecting on his decision, Zak said: "Regrets I've had a few – this is one – (not the sex part!). Ozzy will always be one of the greatest, natural, brilliant singers of all time. I send much love and strength to his family at this sad, sad time. If u aren't familiar with the 'Never Say Die' record – get into it – it's so far out."
Ozzy died aged 76, with his family announcing the news and stating he was "surrounded by love". His farewell show in Birmingham took place just over two weeks before his death, featuring performances from Guns N' Roses, Metallica and other rock acts, raising money for charity.
