Ozzy Osbourne Reflects on Past Drug Use and Current Sobriety

In a recent conversation on his podcast with Billy Morrison, Ozzy Osbourne, the 75-year-old iconic rocker from Black Sabbath, provided a candid reflection on his past struggles with substance abuse and his current efforts to maintain sobriety. Osbourne acknowledged the transformative impact these struggles have had on his life, stating that his life is “much better” today despite not being “completely sober.”

Osbourne, who has experienced several surgeries in recent years, recounted a friend’s suggestion to experiment with microdosing ketamine. He mentioned, “I went to a doctor recently, ‘cause somebody I know very well started to have this ketamine,” adding that even a small dose was enough for him. Despite this encounter, Osbourne emphasized his decision to avoid drugs, stating, “For me, that’s lighting the fuse,” a reflection grounded in the Alcoholics Anonymous principle, “One’s too many, and 10’s never enough.”

The “Crazy Train” musician did admit to occasional marijuana use and expressed gratitude for his wife, Sharon Osbourne, who plays a significant role in helping him avoid harder substances. “My wife kicks my butt all the time,” said Osbourne. “She would f—ing make my life so difficult.” He humorously added, “Even the marijuana, she will f—ing find it and get rid of it.”

Emphasizing his commitment to sobriety, Osbourne shared a message for those battling addiction, “The message is, if you are out there and you are using dope and you want to get off, there is plenty of help.” He credited Alcoholics Anonymous with aiding his journey, though noted he no longer attends meetings, “I don’t go to meetings myself anymore, but maybe I should. I don’t know.”

During the podcast episode, the “Godfather of Metal” also recounted a harrowing experience from his years of cocaine use, where he narrowly avoided legal trouble after almost being caught by a police officer. “I bent down, and I see these black boots standing at the urinal — it’s a f—ing cop,” he recalled, describing his determination to use the drug despite the risk.

For those struggling with substance abuse, help is available through the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.