Stephen Rea's recently published memoir, 'Ozzy & Me: Life Lessons, Wild Stories, and Unexpected Epiphanies from Forty Years of Friendship with the Prince of Darkness,' offers a deeply personal look into his decades-long bond with the iconic rock star, Ozzy Osbourne. The book traces their unique friendship from its serendipitous origins at the 1984 Rock in Rio festival to Osbourne's final, emotionally charged performance in Birmingham. Rea’s narrative is filled with a mixture of humor, admiration, and profound sentiment, culminating in a poignant reflection on loss and the enduring impact of a truly extraordinary friendship. The story unfolds as Rea navigates the unexpected challenges and privileges of being part of Ozzy's inner circle, providing readers with an intimate glimpse into the life of the legendary musician.
The journey began when a teenage Stephen Rea was unexpectedly offered a trip to Rock in Rio, an opportunity facilitated by his mother's outreach to the Ozzy Osbourne Information Centre. This bold move led to free tickets and a life-altering introduction to Osbourne, sparking a friendship that would span over forty years. Later, in 1996, Osbourne encouraged Rea to document his experiences by gifting him two leather-bound notebooks, which eventually formed the foundation of this compelling memoir.
The narrative reaches its emotional peak with Osbourne's farewell show, 'Back to the Beginning,' an all-day benefit concert held in July 2025 in Birmingham, England. Rea vividly describes the chaotic yet exhilarating atmosphere backstage, where he was tasked with collecting signatures from all the performing artists on a commemorative poster for Sharon Osbourne. This role provided him with a unique vantage point, allowing him to reconnect with old friends and witness the camaraderie among rock legends like Metallica, Guns N' Roses, and Alice in Chains, all gathered to honor the Prince of Darkness.
Rea's initial struggle to secure a ticket for this highly anticipated event, a concern that eventually dissolved when Lynn, Sharon Osbourne’s assistant and Rea's long-time 'fairy godmother,' listed him as part of the crew. This gesture not only ensured his attendance but also reaffirmed his place within the Osbourne family's trusted circle. During the soundcheck, Rea was deeply moved by Osbourne's resilience, witnessing him perform 'Mama, I'm Coming Home' despite his ongoing battle with Parkinson's, a moment that underscored the profound connection he felt to the musician.
The culmination of the farewell concert was marked by an unexpected and deeply personal encounter with Osbourne at the afterparty. Despite the presence of countless celebrities, Osbourne sought out Rea, initiating a conversation that transitioned from professional appreciation to a shared moment of intimacy. Rea recalls Osbourne introducing him to Robert Trujillo as simply 'a kid' he met, a fan, a roadie, and finally, a friend—a testament to the depth and evolution of their bond.
The memoir concludes with the somber news of Osbourne's passing, just seventeen days after the farewell concert. Rea recounts his immediate desire to be with the Osbourne family in London, highlighting the surreal experience of referring to the funeral as 'the gig' or 'the show' – a darkly humorous nod to Osbourne’s own personality. He shares a comical, yet emotionally revealing anecdote of waking up in a hotel corridor, a situation he later learned Ozzy himself was infamous for, which brought a moment of levity amidst the grief. The book closes with a touching offer from Jack Osbourne to write the foreword, showcasing the Osbourne family's unwavering support and kindness, a reflection of the profound impact Ozzy had on those around him.