A Special Night for the Prince of Darkness
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards will pay tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with an all-star performance on Sunday, September 7. The network confirmed that Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler and guitarist Joe Perry will join Yungblud and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt on stage for a medley of Osbourne’s most iconic songs. The broadcast will air live on CBS at 8 p.m. ET, hosted by LL Cool J.
For decades, Osbourne held a unique place in rock culture. Known as the “Prince of Darkness,” he was not only a pioneer in heavy metal but also a familiar face on MTV. From memorable appearances on Headbanger’s Ball in the 1980s to his family’s reality series The Osbournes between 2002 and 2005, his relationship with the network was long and influential.
Remembering His Final Stage Appearance
Osbourne passed away on July 22 at the age of 76. His death came just weeks after his last live performance at the Back to the Beginning concert in Birmingham, U.K. That night included sets from Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Mastodon, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Alice in Chains, and many others.
Yungblud and Bettencourt were part of that historic event, joining Sleep Token II for a heartfelt version of Black Sabbath’s Changes. Bettencourt also played alongside Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello and bassist Rudy Sarzo, a longtime Osbourne collaborator, during a special supergroup section. Together, they performed Symptom of the Universe along with several other Sabbath and solo Osbourne tracks.
Honoring a Legacy at the VMAs
This year’s tribute aims to highlight both Osbourne’s influence and his enduring catalog. Tyler, Perry, Yungblud, and Bettencourt will lead the performance, celebrating a body of work that shaped generations of rock musicians. The medley will reflect different eras of his career, from Black Sabbath classics to his successful solo years.
The VMAs are known for spotlighting unique collaborations, and this tribute will mark another moment where established legends and newer performers share the same stage. It is designed as a fitting salute to one of the most recognized figures in heavy music.
See MTV’s promo for the Ozzy tribute below:
Other Highlights of the Night
While the Ozzy tribute will be a centerpiece, the 2025 MTV VMAs also promise a wide range of performances. Scheduled acts include Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Tate McRae, Alex Warren, and Sabrina Carpenter. Each artist will bring their own style to the broadcast, adding to the night’s variety.
Busta Rhymes will be honored with the MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award. In addition, Ricky Martin will receive the inaugural Latin Icon Award, marking another historic recognition during the ceremony.
