Sharon Osbourne breaks silence after Ozzy's death as tributes continue to pour in

Sharon Osbourne has responded to Gavin Rossdale's heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. The 72-year-old made her first public statement following the death of the Black Sabbath legend at age 76, replying to the Bush frontman's Instagram tribute to the Paranoid rocker.

Gavin wrote alongside a photograph of himself with Ozzy: "RIP OZZY - a great man - a true legend. I met Ozzy through Jack just a few times but he was so warm and kind and funny and I love that memory. Sending much love to his family at this difficult time. Rest in power." Sharon simply replied: "Bless you."

The former America's Got Talent panellist had previously issued a family statement alongside her children Aimee, 41, Kelly, 40, and Jack, 39, confirming the devastating news of Ozzy's passing.

The statement read: "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."

Musical legends flooded social media with tributes following his death, with Sir Elton John calling the star "a dear friend and huge trailblazer".

The Rocketman icon wrote on Instagram: "He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods. He was also one of the funniest people I've ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love."

Ozzy's passing occurs merely weeks following his final performance alongside Black Sabbath colleagues Tony Iommi, Bill Ward and Terence 'Geezer' Butler at Villa Park in his native Birmingham, with the trio all paying heartfelt tributes to the heavy metal legend.

Butler penned on Instagram: "Thanks for all those years - we had some great fun.

"Four kids from Aston - who'd have thought, eh? So glad we got to do it one more time, back in Aston. Love you."

Guitarist Iommi remarked: "It's just such heartbreaking news that I can't really find the words, there won't be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother."

Ward shared on social media: "Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls... no, you're forever in my heart."