Ozzy Osbourne, the Iconic “Prince of Darkness,” Dies at 76 After Battling Parkinson’s

The world says farewell to heavy metal’s founding voice

Legendary Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the age of 76, at his Buckinghamshire home, surrounded by his family. Reports indicate paramedics, including the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, attempted resuscitation for two hours before ultimately pronouncing him dead (News.com.au).

🎤 Career & Legacy

Pioneering Heavy Metal with Black Sabbath

Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, UK, Ozzy rose to fame after co-founding Black Sabbath in 1968. Albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality reshaped rock and laid the foundations for heavy metal (Wikipedia).

Trailblazing Solo Chapter

After parting ways with Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy launched a smash solo career. He dropped the iconic Blizzard of Ozz (1980), delivering unforgettable tracks like “Crazy Train” and “No More Tears,” and sold over 100 million records worldwide (Wikipedia).

Pop Culture Mainstay

He reinvented himself via reality TV (The Osbournes), launched Ozzfest, and earned inductions into both the UK Music Hall of Fame (2005) and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—first with Black Sabbath (2006), later as a solo artist (2024) (Wikipedia).

🩺 Health Struggles & Final Farewell

• Ozzy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019, suffering numerous health setbacks: a major 2019 quad-bike accident, spinal surgeries in 2022–2023, loss of mobility, and respiratory infections (People.com).

• In his final weeks, he attended Black Sabbath’s “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert at Villa Park on July 5, performing seated and inspiring bandmate Tony Iommi to say he “held out” just to be there (Wikipedia).

• In his final days, Ozzy shared a touching family breakfast video—capturing a warm morning with daughter Kelly and grandson Sidney—just two days before his death (News.com.au).

🌍 Global Mourning & Tributes

• Fans gathered in his hometown of Birmingham, leaving flowers on Navigation Street, and the Philharmonic Orchestra played tributes at New Street Station (VG).

• Bandmates from Black Sabbath labeled him “irreplaceable” and invoked “Ozzy Forever” in their tributes (The Guardian).

• Fellow musicians, including Elton John, Rod Stewart, and Noel Gallagher, publicly mourned one of rock’s most enduring and rebellious figures (The Scottish Sun).

🔍 SMH Takeaway: The End of an Era

Ozzy Osbourne didn't just grow loud—he grew legends. From Sabbath’s haunted riffs to solo anthems and reality TV stardom, he forged heavy metal’s emotional depth and swagger. Even as his body failed, his spirit roared one last time in Birmingham—on stage, on family morning video, and in global remembrance.

His death marks not just the loss of a voice but a symbol of rebellion, resilience, and raw honesty. Now, we’re left to ask: in a world without Ozzy, who will roar with such unapologetic power?

😐🇺🇸 #SMHAmerica #PrinceOfDarkness

• The Guardian
• VG
• New York Post
• Pitchfork

‘Cosby Show’ Star Malcolm‑Jamal Warner, 54, Dies in Drowning Accident in Costa Rica

Tragic end for a groundbreaking actor and family man

Malcolm‑Jamal Warner, beloved for his Emmy‑nominated role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, tragically drowned on July 20, 2025, off Cocles Beach near Limón, Costa Rica. Police confirmed the cause of death was asphyxia by submersion, with Warner caught in a strong rip current while swimming with his 8‑year‑old daughter (ABC7 Los Angeles).

👨‍👧 What Happened

• Warner and his daughter were swimming when they were overtaken by a violent current.

• Surfers carried the child to safety using a surfboard, while a volunteer lifeguard and another swimmer helped Warner to shore (Page Six, People.com).

• Despite 45 minutes of CPR and intervention by the Red Cross, he was pronounced dead at the scene (People.com).

• His body was identified by Costa Rican authorities and repatriated following an autopsy confirming accidental drowning (ABC7 New York).

🎭 Life & Legacy

From Sitcom Icon to Cultural Voice

Born August 18, 1970, in Jersey City, Warner first captured hearts as the charming Theo Huxtable (1984–1992), earning an Emmy nod in 1986 (Wikipedia). Post‑Cosby, he starred in Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, Sons of Anarchy, and enjoyed a six‑season run on The Resident (Wikipedia).

Talent Beyond the Screen

• Grammy winner (2015, Best Traditional R&B) for “Jesus Children” (Wikipedia).

• A respected poet, director, bass player—his “Buteco Nights” in Atlanta championed Black artistry and community (The Guardian).

• Co‑host of the Not All Hood podcast, discussing mental health and Black life (Wikipedia).

🌐 Industry & Fan Reactions

Entertainment figures and co‑stars responded with heartfelt tributes. The Guardian noted he “embodied integrity,” while Stevie Wonder mourned a profound cultural storyteller, calling Warner a “griot” whose loss leaves a deep void (The Guardian).

🔍 SMH Takeaway: More Than Just Theo

Warner was more than sitcom royalty—he was a whole persona: talent, father, poet, advocate. His death underneath idyllic Costa Rica waves exposes the harsh reality that tragedy can strike anywhere, even paradise.

While a surfboard saved one life, Warner’s legacy is perhaps even more impactful—he taught millions that Black masculinity, creativity, and truth can be uplifting forces on screen and off. His passing leaves us asking: How many other everyday heroes go unrecognized until it’s too late?

😐🇺🇸 #SMHAmerica #RestInPower

‘The Cosby Show’ star Malcolm‑Jamal Warner dies at 54 – YouTube report 

• People.com
• The Guardian
• The Guardian
• Decider

WWE Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 of Cardiac Arrest in Florida

Legendary “Hulkamania” Endures After Passing

WWE legend Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea died on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at age 71 following a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida, home, confirmed by TMZ and WWE (TMZ).

🏆 Career Breakdown

From Georgia Roots to Wrestling Megastar

Born August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan began his pro-wrestling career in 1977, skyrocketing to fame after signing with the WWF in 1983. He became the face of “Hulkamania,” headlining eight of the first nine WrestleManias and holding multiple world titles (Wikipedia).

Crossover Fame & WCW Invasion

Hogan didn't just stay in the ring. He starred in Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, reality series like Hogan Knows Best, and later wreaked havoc in WCW by leading the nWo — helping spark the mid-’90s wrestling boom (Wikipedia).

Hall of Fame & Legacy

Twice inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame (2005, 2020), Hogan’s influence shaped wrestling globally, remembered as the most recognizable wrestler in pop culture (Indiatimes).

🩺 Final Act and Health

Paramedics arrived early Thursday, performed CPR, and rushed Hogan to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead (TMZ). Reports show recent spinal surgery followed by complications leading to unexpected cardiac arrest (People.com, Indiatimes). His manager, Chris Volo, confirmed he was surrounded by family (NBC Los Angeles).

🌐 Global Reactions

Tributes poured in—from wrestling great Ric Flair, actor Sylvester Stallone, to political figures and fans worldwide (New York Post).

Online, some Reddit users reminded of Hogan’s controversies post-wrestling career, while others mourned the passing of an “80s icon” (Reddit):

“Ozzy is a sad story. Same with hogan but dude went down that fascism road near the end.” (Reddit)

🔍 SMH Takeaway: Hulkamania’s Shocking End

Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestling phenom—he was the face of an era, turning wrestling into blockbuster entertainment and defining “main-event charisma.” But his legacy is complicated. Hogan battled health struggles later in life and left behind debates about his political stances and public missteps.

Still, when he ripped off his shirt and shouted, “Whatcha gonna do, brother?”—millions answered. His passing marks the end of an epoch in wrestling and pop culture. The question for future generations: Are entertainment giants held to the same scrutiny they once escaped?

😐🇺🇸 #SMHAmerica

BREAKING: Hulk Hogan dead at 71, TMZ reports

• EW.com
• Indiatimes
• Omni
• New York Post

James Earl Jones, the legendary actor known for his deep, commanding voice that brought Darth Vader to life in "Star Wars" and Mufasa in "The Lion King," passed away Monday at the age of 93.

Jones' death was confirmed by his representative, Barry McPherson, who shared, "He passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. He was a great man." No cause of death was provided.

Throughout his illustrious career, Jones earned an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award (EGOT), and his iconic voice became a cultural staple. He is remembered for his powerful presence on stage and screen, as well as his memorable delivery of the line "This is CNN" for the news network. His portrayal of Mufasa in Disney’s "The Lion King" further cemented his legacy, but his most famous role remained Darth Vader, with the unforgettable line, "I am your father."

Reflecting on his career in a 2010 interview, Jones said, "I've done a King Lear, too! But the kids want the Darth Vader autograph, and that’s okay. You learn to embrace what the audience gives you."

Born in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones was raised by his grandparents in Michigan. As a child, he struggled with a severe stutter but overcame it through drama. After studying at the University of Michigan, he pursued acting in New York in 1957, following in the footsteps of his father, Robert Earl, who had left before Jones was born.

Jones made his Broadway debut in 1958 with "Sunrise at Campobello" and went on to win two Tony Awards for "The Great White Hope" (1969) and "Fences" (1987). His theatrical work also included notable performances in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" and "Driving Miss Daisy."

In cinema, Jones first appeared in the 1964 classic "Dr. Strangelove." He earned an Oscar nomination for "The Great White Hope" and starred in films like "Conan the Barbarian" (1982), "Coming to America" (1988), "Field of Dreams" (1989), and "The Sandlot" (1993). He cherished his role in "Field of Dreams," describing it as "simple yet powerful," believing that magic happens when simplicity is allowed to flourish.

Although Jones is known for many roles, his voice work as Darth Vader in the original 1977 "Star Wars" made him an enduring figure in pop culture. Despite never being seen on-screen in the role, his voice became synonymous with one of Hollywood's greatest villains. Jones humorously recalled earning just $7,000 for his work on the film but expressed gratitude for the opportunity.

Jones reprised his role as Mufasa in the 2019 remake of "The Lion King." Director Jon Favreau remarked that working with Jones was an honor, as he was irreplaceable in the role. Jones also returned as Vader for the 2019 film "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" and later authorized the use of his voice for future projects, aided by artificial intelligence technology.

In 2016, Jones shared that he had been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, a revelation that prompted him to focus on his health. Despite the diagnosis, he remained positive and determined to continue working, saying, "I accepted that I will always be a diabetic, but I can live a full life."

Ahead of his 90th birthday in 2021, Jones expressed pride in his life’s work and looked forward to continuing his craft for as long as possible. "I feel young at heart," he said. "And I love to work."

Jones' final on-screen appearance was in the 2021 sequel "Coming 2 America," reprising his role as King Jaffe Joffer from the 1988 original film.

 Multiple Individuals Charged in Connection with Actor Matthew Perry’s Overdose Death

Several individuals have been charged in connection with the accidental overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, according to law enforcement sources who spoke with NBC News on Thursday.

Perry, 54, was discovered unresponsive in the heated section of his pool at his Pacific Palisades residence on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that his death was due to the acute effects of ketamine, a powerful anesthetic with hallucinogenic properties.

Sources reported that at least one arrest was made in Southern California early Thursday. Federal prosecutors are expected to unseal an indictment later today, detailing the charges against this individual and others involved.

The family of Keith Morrison, a “Dateline” correspondent and Perry’s stepfather, expressed their relief at the recent developments.

“We were and continue to be devastated by Matthew’s passing, but it brings some solace knowing that law enforcement has treated his case with the seriousness it deserves,” the family stated. “We look forward to seeing justice served.”

In May, the Los Angeles police confirmed their collaboration with federal authorities to investigate the source of the ketamine found in Perry’s system.

Ketamine, long popular as a recreational drug, has recently gained attention for its potential in treating depression. An increasing number of clinics offer ketamine infusions or injections for various mental health conditions.

Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety, though his last session occurred over a week before his death. The medical examiner noted that the ketamine detected in Perry’s body “could not be from that infusion therapy” due to its short half-life.

The ketamine levels in his system were significantly high, comparable to those used for general anesthesia in surgical procedures, according to the medical examiner’s findings.

Ultimately, Perry’s death was ruled accidental, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the presence of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid dependence.

Perry, beloved for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show “Friends,” had been candid about his struggles with opioid addiction and alcoholism, which he detailed in his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” The medical examiner’s report noted that Perry had been sober for 19 months at the time of his death.

It’s not unusual for law enforcement to investigate and, in some cases, charge those responsible for supplying drugs that lead to high-profile fatalities.

For example, after Michael Jackson’s death in 2009, his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for administering a fatal dose of potent drugs. More recently, federal prosecutors in New York charged four individuals who provided actor Michael K. Williams with the fentanyl-laced heroin that resulted in his 2021 death.

 In Loving Memory of Mathew Perry

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mathew Perry, who departed from this world on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. Mathew, a beloved son, brother, and friend, left us suddenly, leaving a void that can never be filled. 

Mathew was born on June 19, 1969, and grew up to be a remarkable individual, touching the lives of everyone he met with his kindness, humor, and unwavering optimism. He was a loving son to his parents, a caring sibling to his brothers and sisters, and a cherished friend to many. His warm smile and gentle spirit endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A talented professional, Mathew was dedicated to his work and inspired those around him with his passion and creativity. He pursued his career with diligence and enthusiasm, leaving a lasting impact on his colleagues and the organizations he served. His contributions to his field were invaluable, and his legacy will continue to influence and inspire future generations.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mathew had a deep love for his family and friends. He was always there to lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, and share a hearty laugh. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was a source of strength and support for those in need.

Mathew's love for life extended to his hobbies and interests. He had a passion for travel, exploring different cultures and cuisines, and embracing the beauty of the world. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and had a profound appreciation for art, music, and literature.

Mathew will be dearly missed by his family and friends, who take comfort in the memories of the time they shared with him. Although he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the love he shared, the laughter he brought, and the kindness he showed to others.

A memorial service to celebrate Mathew's life will be held on [date] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to [charity or organization], a cause that was close to Mathew's heart.

Remembering Matthew Perry: A look back at "Friends" star's career and troubled life

May Mathew Perry rest in eternal peace, his memory forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In Other SMH America News

 Talk Show Legend will be Missed: Jerry Springer Dead at 79

Jerry Springer, the charismatic talk show host known for his outrageous guests and shocking revelations, has passed away at the age of 79. He died on April 27th, 2023, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born in London, England, in 1944, Jerry Springer began his career as a lawyer before transitioning to politics. He served as a city councilman and later as the mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio. However, it was his talk show, "The Jerry Springer Show," which premiered in 1991, that made him a household name.

Throughout the show's 27-year run, Springer tackled controversial topics and welcomed guests who were often embroiled in salacious scandals. His show quickly became known for its explosive confrontations and over-the-top antics, making it a staple of daytime television.

Despite the criticism and controversy surrounding his show, Springer always maintained that it was meant to entertain and provide a platform for people to share their stories. He remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his impact on television and popular culture will not be forgotten.

In addition to his work in television, Springer also hosted several game shows and even appeared on "Dancing with the Stars" in 2006.

Jerry Springer dies at the age of 79

Jerry Springer is survived by his wife, Micki Velton, whom he married in 1973, and their daughter, Katie Springer. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans around the world.