Bill Ward has given fans a heartfelt update about his health, nearly one year after the passing of his longtime Black Sabbath bandmate, Ozzy Osbourne. The 78-year-old drummer addressed recent questions about his mobility and explained why he has been using a wheelchair in public. While the update acknowledged physical challenges, Ward made it clear that his passion for music remains unchanged and that he has no plans to step away from drumming.
On July 9, Bill Ward shared a detailed message on X, explaining that he now relies on a wheelchair during airport travel and at some public events. He clarified that the wheelchair is used to help manage long distances rather than because he is unable to walk.
"I'm announcing today somewhat sadly but nonetheless truthfully, that I've reached a place where publicly more and more I need to use a wheelchair, mostly in airports, or public events," Ward wrote. "I can still walk, let there be no doubt, but I can't walk very far without needing to rest, meaning I need to sit down."
Instagram | vitrolanews | Bill Ward confirmed he uses a wheelchair due to mobility issues but insists he isn’t retiring from music.
Ward revealed that he and those close to him started using the wheelchair around 18 months ago, mainly while traveling. Reflecting on his life, he shared that he turned 78 on May 5, 2026, and recalled spending many years walking long distances across different parts of the world. Despite his mobility issues, he emphasized that drumming continues to be a major part of his life.
"I was a long distance walker, I've walked in many different parts of the world, and I'm still a drummer. I can still play pretty good for 78 years old," he added.
A Long History of Health Battles
Ward has faced several health challenges throughout his life. During Black Sabbath's peak years, he struggled with mental health issues and alcohol addiction. He later became sober and adopted a vegan lifestyle in the 1980s, earning the nickname "Heavy Metal Vegan."
His medical history also includes serious heart problems. In 1998, Ward suffered a heart attack while rehearsing for Black Sabbath's reunion tour. Additional cardiac incidents followed in 2017 and 2021. More recently, mobility has become one of his biggest health concerns.
Even with these setbacks, Ward stressed that his love for performing remains as strong as ever.
"My talents and ambitions, and my unyielding need to be artful, and to play drums, is still as strong as it was so many years ago now," he wrote.
Ward also asked fans not to assume that using a wheelchair means retirement or declining health.
"I'm just saying if you see me in a wheelchair, I'm just catching a ride, I'm not in retirement or ill or giving up, or any of those thoughts that ignite when we see people in wheelchairs."
He encouraged people to greet him if they see him while traveling or attending concerts, adding, "I'm making myself public and transparent about my new transport, and letting you know I'm OK... Much love to you all and I'll keep rocking until I'm dead."
Ward concluded his message by highlighting the value of honesty, writing, "And the secrets we hide, can be dangerous to our health, I'm letting transparency prevail, with love and progression."
Remembering Ozzy Osbourne
Instagram | @planetrockradio | Black Sabbath’s final reunion remains a powerful tribute to Ozzy Osbourne’s lasting music legacy.
Ward's health update arrived just weeks before the first anniversary of Ozzy Osbourne's death. The Osbourne family confirmed that the legendary singer passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76.
"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," the family said in a statement. "He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time."
Following Ozzy's passing, every surviving original member of Black Sabbath honored their former frontman. Ward shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing, "Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, you're forever in my heart."
He continued, "Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever."
Just weeks before Ozzy's death, he reunited with Ward and the original Black Sabbath lineup during his farewell concert, "Back to the Beginning," held in Birmingham, England, on July 5, 2025.
Bill Ward's recent health update confirms that he remains active despite ongoing mobility challenges. While he now uses a wheelchair for long distances, he continues to play drums and connect with fans. His candid remarks offer a clear picture of his current health while reaffirming his dedication to music and the lasting legacy of Black Sabbath alongside Ozzy Osbourne.
