Tribute to Birmingham’s legendary rock icon draws nearly 100,000 visitors.
The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has announced a three-month extension to its hugely popular exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne, following overwhelming public interest.
Titled Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero, the free exhibition opened on 25 June, coinciding with Black Sabbath’s farewell concert at Villa Park on 5 July. Osbourne, the charismatic frontman of the pioneering heavy metal band and one of Birmingham’s most iconic sons, died just two weeks after the concert, further intensifying public sentiment and turnout.
Originally scheduled to close on 28 September, the museum has now confirmed the exhibition will run until Sunday 18 January 2026 to accommodate the surge in visitors. Since its debut, more than 96,000 people have visited the gallery — a testament to Osbourne’s enduring impact on music and culture.
Supported by the Osbourne family and developed in collaboration with Central BID Birmingham, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at the star’s rise from humble beginnings in Aston to global superstardom. On display are some of his most prized accolades, including Grammy Awards, MTV trophies, and his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Fans can also view his star plaques from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Birmingham’s own Walk of Stars.
The immersive experience features a collection of photographs, video installations, and personal memorabilia that, according to the museum, “chart his journey from a working-class kid from Aston to the world’s most recognisable global rock legend.”
At the opening of the exhibition in June, Sharon Osbourne praised the tribute, saying: “I can’t begin to tell you how much I love it. Everything has come from this city.” She added that she hopes the exhibit will inspire a new generation of local talent: “If Ozzy did it, I can do it too.”
The museum also served as the venue for the official book of condolence, which has now closed, but the spirit of remembrance continues through the extended exhibition.
