Robbie Williams Honours Ozzy Osbourne with ‘No More Tears’ at 2026 BRITs

Robbie Williams delivered a powerful tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne at the 2026 BRIT Awards on Saturday, February 28th, leading a supergroup of musicians through a stirring rendition of Black Sabbath’s “No More Tears.” The performance closed out the ceremony at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, honoring Osbourne with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award just seven months after his passing in July 2025.

The moment was particularly poignant as Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife, accepted the award, delivering an emotional speech alongside their daughter, Kelly. Although Kelly’s shout-out to Aston Villa football club drew some playful boos from the crowd, the focus remained firmly on celebrating the legacy of the “Prince of Darkness.”

A Final Bow for a Rock Icon

Williams, personally invited by Sharon Osbourne as a longtime fan and friend of the family, took the stage with a band comprised of musicians who frequently collaborated with Osbourne throughout his career: Adam Wakeman, Robert Trujillo, Tommy Clufetos, and Zakk Wylde. The arrangement of “No More Tears,” a signature track from Osbourne’s 1991 album of the same name, was curated by Sharon, adding another layer of personal significance to the performance.

Footage of the tribute quickly circulated online, with fans sharing clips on social media. While many praised the sentiment and the musicianship, some reactions were mixed, with a few commenting that Williams’ vocal style didn’t quite mesh with the iconic song. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Robbie Williams’ voice just not working with this at all, ruins a real #Ozzy masterclass!”

Ozzy Osbourne’s Enduring Legacy

The BRIT Awards tribute is the latest in a series of honors for Osbourne following his death. He was also recognized at the US Grammys earlier this year, where a supergroup featuring Post Malone, Slash, Duff McKagan, Chad Smith, and Andrew Watt performed a cover of “War Pigs.” This Lifetime Achievement Award acknowledges a career that fundamentally reshaped the landscape of rock music. As Stacey Tang, chair of the 2026 Brit Awards Committee, stated, Osbourne “reshaped the sound and spirit of rock, inspiring generations of artists who followed.”

Sharon Osbourne recently shared insights into Ozzy’s final months, revealing that he was aware of his declining health but determined to fulfill his commitments, including his farewell performance in Birmingham. She recounted to the Dumb Blonde podcast that doctors warned him the show could be fatal, but he insisted on performing, stating, “Whether I die in two weeks or I die in six months, I’m still dying. And I want to move my way.” This determination underscores the deep connection Osbourne had with his music and his fans.

Beyond the Tribute: Williams’ Recent Activity

Williams’ appearance at the BRIT Awards followed a performance at Manchester’s Aviva Studios on February 27th as part of BRITs Week, a series of shows benefiting War Child. In a playful move, Williams even erected a billboard near Noel Gallagher’s former residence, seemingly poking fun at their long-standing rivalry. This lighthearted gesture added another layer of intrigue to the BRITs Week festivities.

Williams’ collaboration with Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi on the single “Rocket” last year further demonstrates his appreciation for the genre and his willingness to engage with rock legends. He previously performed sections of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” at a live performance, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

The Full Picture: Winners and Further Coverage

The 2026 BRIT Awards celebrated a diverse range of artists across various genres. For those interested in seeing the complete list of winners, NME has a comprehensive rundown of the evening’s accolades.

The tribute to Ozzy Osbourne served as a fitting culmination to the ceremony, reminding audiences of his enduring influence and the profound impact he had on the world of music. It was a moment of collective remembrance and celebration, honoring a true icon who continues to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.

Looking Ahead: Osbourne’s Continued Influence

While Ozzy Osbourne’s passing marks the complete of an era, his music and legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come. His influence can be heard in countless artists across various genres, and his songs remain staples on rock radio and streaming playlists. The outpouring of tributes following his death, from the Grammys to the BRIT Awards, is a testament to his enduring popularity and the profound impact he had on popular culture. The Osbourne family has not yet announced any plans for formal memorial events beyond the industry recognitions, but fans can expect continued celebration of his life and work through reissues, documentaries, and ongoing tributes from fellow musicians.