Ozzy Osbourne has died aged 76

Ozzy Osbourne has died aged 76, his family have announced.

The Black Sabbath star passed away 'surrounded by love' at the age of 76, a statement from his family said.

The statement from his family reads in full: "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."

Osbourne, who married Sharon Osbourne back in 1982, had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019.

As frontman of Black Sabbath, he was at the forefront of the heavy metal scene – a deeper, darker offshoot of hard rock.

His theatrical stage presence - which once included biting off the head of a bat - and styling himself as the Prince of Darkness marked him out as a controversial figure.

Black Sabbath star, Ozzy Osbourne, has died aged 76 (PA)

Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3rd 1948 in Aston, Birmingham, he left school at 15 and did odd jobs including factory work before teaming up with school friend Geezer Butler in several bands.

Tributes from fans across the globe have since poured in for the late musician with one Twitter user writing: "RIP Ozzy Osbourne the godfather of rock and roll."

A second penned: "Shocking news RIP Ozzy."

The rock and roll musician leaves behind six children following his passing (PA)

"Oh man. Rock In Peace, Ozzy," offered a third while another fan added: "Ozzy Osbourne is one of those people you just assume will literally live forever…

"RIP, Ozzy. A legend in every way, man."

And a final Twitter user echoed: "RIP Ozzy Osbourne, you utter legend they’ll be rocking in heaven tonight!!"

Osbourne leaves behind six children whom he had from two different relationships.

He shares three children with his first wife, Thelma Riley, who he married in 1971 before divorcing in 1982; Jessica Osbourne (born 1972), Louis Osbourne (born 1975) and his step-son Elliot Kingsley (born 1966) who was adopted by Osbourne during his marriage to Thelma.

Additionally, he's also got three children with Sharon; Aimee Osbourne (born 1983), Kelly Osbourne (born 1984) and his youngest child, Jack Osbourne (born 1985).

He's not only known for his musical prowess, with his band credited with pioneering heavy metal in the early 1970s, but he's also enjoyed a stint in reality TV.

Back in the 2000s, between 2002 to 2005, Osbourne starred alongside his family in MTV’s The Osbournes, introducing him to a new generation.