Iron Maiden Faces Backlash Over Silence on Ozzy Osbourne’s Death

Iron Maiden is catching heat online after failing to publicly acknowledge the death of Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76.

While most major figures in the rock and metal world shared tributes within hours of the news breaking, Iron Maiden remained quiet. Instead of posting a message of remembrance, the band shared a promotional Instagram Story about their Trooper beer, sparking frustration from longtime fans.

Fans speak out

By the 10-hour mark after Ozzy’s death was announced, dozens of bands had already posted photos, stories, or messages honoring the former Black Sabbath frontman. Metallica, Judas Priest, Guns N’ Roses, and Slipknot were among those to share memories and condolences.

Iron Maiden’s silence stood out. Fans quickly began commenting on the band’s social media pages, asking why there was no tribute. Many referenced the rocky history between Ozzy and Iron Maiden, particularly a 2005 incident involving Bruce Dickinson and Sharon Osbourne at Ozzfest, but argued that past drama should be put aside.

One user, @kasperwhowrites, commented on Instagram:

“I hope you end the fight in honor of the legend Ozzy. Rest in peace, Ozzy.”

Another user, @jonygr_8, pleaded:

“Please, my band, my Maiden, pay tribute to Ozzy.”

Several others echoed the same sentiment, asking the band to show respect and make peace in memory of a man often credited with helping shape the genre that made Iron Maiden famous.

Old feud resurfaces

The tension goes back to Ozzfest 2005, when Bruce Dickinson reportedly made negative comments about the event’s organization and reliance on reality TV stars. In response, Sharon Osbourne allegedly orchestrated a sabotage of Iron Maiden’s set, cutting power and throwing eggs at the band during their performance.

That dust-up left lasting resentment on both sides, but fans say that should be irrelevant now. Ozzy’s death, they argue, is bigger than any personal grudge.

One user, @profeduardoarantes, posted:

“No words for Ozzy? No regrets from Bruce after what he did to Sharon? You should apologize and thank Ozzy for everything he did for metal”

Maiden stays quiet

As of the publishing of this article, the band had not issued any public comment regarding Ozzy Osbourne’s death. Their social media activity remained focused on tour promotion and merchandising.

That includes a post about their Power Trip show and upcoming performance in Arnhem, Netherlands, scheduled for Wednesday, July 23. Fans are watching to see if Dickinson or any other band member makes a statement on stage instead of online.

While Iron Maiden’s silence may have been strategic or personal, it hasn’t been received well. Many fans believe that staying quiet sends the wrong message, especially when so many others in the metal world have expressed admiration and grief.

Community reaction

The metal community tends to be tight-knit, especially when one of its legends dies. Artists across generations came together to honor Ozzy with photos, tour stories, and emotional words. Even those who hadn’t shared a stage with him spoke about how much his music meant to them.

This makes Iron Maiden’s silence even more noticeable.

“Sharon isn’t the best person in the world,” one commenter wrote, “but a tribute to Ozzy is necessary.”

Another, @cameramanbrandon, said:

“Let go of the grudges. Show some love to the founder of metal.”

Others framed their comments as disappointment rather than anger, emphasizing how meaningful it would be for fans if Iron Maiden offered even a brief acknowledgment.

On-stage tribute possible

With the band back on tour, there is still an opportunity for Iron Maiden to address the situation during a live show.

A brief statement or song dedication would likely go a long way in easing the criticism and showing solidarity with the larger rock and metal family.

But even if they choose to speak out, the backlash has already sparked a larger conversation about public respect, ego, and accountability among legacy acts.

Ozzy’s legacy

Ozzy Osbourne, often called the Prince of Darkness, was one of heavy metal’s most influential and recognizable figures. From his early days with Black Sabbath to his long solo career and reality TV fame, he remained in the spotlight for decades.

His death was confirmed in a statement by the Osbourne family:

“It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

Here’s the Instagram post drawing fan reactions 👇

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