By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

"Last Rites," the posthumously published memoir by Ozzy Osbourne, co-authored with Chris Ayres, is a raw and unfiltered chronicle of the legendary rocker's tumultuous final years. Released on October 7, 2025, just months after Osbourne's death on July 22, this book serves as both a candid confession and a poignant farewell from the Prince of Darkness.

The memoir opens with Osbourne's characteristic defiance: "I ain't ready to go anywhere. It's good being alive. I like it. I want to be here with my family." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/ozzy-osbourne/last-rites-3/?utm_source=openai)) This sets the tone for a narrative that oscillates between dark humor and stark vulnerability. Osbourne delves into the myriad health issues that plagued his final years, beginning with a staph infection in 2018, followed by a series of debilitating ailments including pneumonia, a spinal injury from a fall, and a Parkinson's disease diagnosis. His recounting of these events is brutally honest, often laced with the self-deprecating wit that endeared him to fans worldwide.

One of the most harrowing episodes detailed is his 2019 neck injury, resulting from a miscalculated leap into bed that left him nearly paralyzed. The subsequent surgeries and medical interventions are described with unflinching detail, painting a grim picture of a man grappling with his own mortality. Osbourne's reflections on his storied career, from his tumultuous tenure with Black Sabbath to his solo ventures, are interspersed throughout, providing a comprehensive look at his life both on and off the stage.

The memoir doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of Osbourne's life, including his struggles with substance abuse and the infamous incidents that cemented his wild reputation. He candidly addresses the time he attacked his wife, Sharon, expressing deep regret and highlighting the strength of their enduring relationship. These personal anecdotes add depth to the narrative, showcasing a man who, despite his larger-than-life persona, was deeply human.

Critics have lauded "Last Rites" for its authenticity and emotional resonance. Kirkus Reviews describes it as "a charming and often poignant valediction from rock ’n’ roll’s Prince of Darkness." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/ozzy-osbourne/last-rites-3/?utm_source=openai)) The Washington Post highlights the memoir's balance between Osbourne's legendary antics and his meditations on the inevitability of death, noting that even in his most dire moments, he maintains his characteristic humor. ([washingtonpost.com](https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2025/10/07/ozzy-osbourne-memoir/?utm_source=openai))

However, the book's structure may be challenging for some readers. Its rambling and disorganized nature mirrors Osbourne's own chaotic life, which, while authentic, might frustrate those seeking a more linear narrative. Additionally, the graphic descriptions of his health struggles and past misdeeds may be unsettling for some.

In conclusion, "Last Rites" is a brutally honest and deeply personal account of Ozzy Osbourne's final years. It offers fans an unvarnished look at the man behind the myth, complete with all his flaws and triumphs. While its unstructured format and candid content may not appeal to everyone, it stands as a fitting tribute to a rock legend who lived life on his own terms.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 10/16/2025