Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne wows fans with surprise gig at Commonwealth Games closing ceremony

ROCK legend Ozzy Osbourne wowed fans with a surprise hometown performance at the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.

The Black Sabbath frontman, 73, took to the stage to perform his 1970 hit “Paranoid” during the ceremony’s finale.

He has not performed for over five years due to ill health but looked revitalised two months after wife Sharon Osbourne revealed his recent “life-altering” neck and back surgery.

As he rose through the stage the ‘Prince of Darkness’ shouted: “I love you, Birmingham – it’s good to be back!”

Other stand-out performances came from Jorja Smith, Dexys Midnight Runners and Mahalia.

UB40 played a rendition of Red Red Wine to the amped up audience without original member and lead vocalist Ali Campbell.

Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, was seen in the crowd along with other Royals who appeared to be enjoying the showcase.

Viewers were treated to a sneak preview of the new Peaky Blinders stage show and

The night celebrated the region’s incredible contribution to music. Many successful artists have hailed from the West Midlands.

These of these have included Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant, UB40’s Ali Campbell, Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes and John Taylor as well as Slade members Don Powell, Jim and Neville ‘Noddy’ Holder.

The show also gave a nod to how in the West Midlands has changed over the years with the start of the show kicked off by kids playing hopscotch with a background of a 1950s local neighbourhood.

R&B singer Jorja Smith celebrated Birmingham’s influence on heavy metals by rocking out with Judas Priest.

The Earl of Wessex officially closed the ceremony, saying: “Every four years, we endeavour to come together to celebrate our Commonwealth through sport. 

“Thanks to the manner, style and enthusiasm with which you have competed, officiated, supported, organised and volunteered, you have, once again, brought the spirit and values of the Commonwealth to life. 

“You have inspired us and hopefully future generations. You have also demonstrated what unites us. Thank you, Birmingham.”

The night was concluded with Ozzy’s surprise performance with the Aston-born rocker belting out the words to their smash Paranoid.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games were held in Birmingham between July 28 and August 8, 2022.

The main venue for the Games was the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham and participating nations include England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Kenya among many others.