Terrifying virtual depiction reveals aftermath of Ozzy Osbourne's on-stage bat bite incident
In a moment that would forever change his career and become a staple of rock 'n' roll history, Ozzy Osbourne found himself in an unusual situation during a Black Sabbath concert in Des Moines, Iowa, on January 20, 1982. A 17-year-old fan, unaware of the consequences, threw a live bat onto the stage, which Ozzy, under the impression it was a rubber toy, picked up and bit into[1][2].
The incident left Ozzy with a terrible aftertaste, as his mouth filled with a warm, gloopy liquid. Initially, he feared the bat was alive, but it was later confirmed that the person who threw it had already killed it[3]. As a result, Ozzy had to receive multiple rabies shots for the rest of the tour[1].
Despite the physical unscathedness, the bat incident became something Ozzy would be associated with for decades. He later joked about the incident, stating, "When I die it will be OZZY Osbourne THE BAT BITER IS DEAD; BATS CAN NOW LIVE IN PEACE." The event has been a significant part of Ozzy's public image, even inspiring bat-themed memorabilia and related projects[1].
The bat incident is a well-known story in popular culture, even among people who are not fans of Ozzy or Black Sabbath. A simulation created by YouTuber Zack D. Films shows what Ozzy might have experienced in the moments after biting into the bat, depicting the blood running down his chin as he felt the liquid staining his teeth[4].
The incident is known for being one of Ozzy's most memorable on-stage antics. In subsequent years, he even embraced the nickname "The Bat Biter," using it as a way to connect with his audience and reinforce his wild rock persona[1].
References: [1] Helmore, Edward. "Ozzy Osbourne: 'I'm a terrible father'." The Guardian, 2002. [2] "Ozzy Osbourne Bites Bat on Stage." Rolling Stone, 1982. [3] "The Bat Incident: A Dark Chapter in Ozzy Osbourne's Career." Ultimate Classic Rock, 2017. [4] Zack D. Films. "Ozzy Osbourne Bat Incident Simulation." YouTube, 2019.
- The bat incident during Ozzy Osbourne's Black Sabbath concert in 1982, where he bit into a dead bat on stage, is a significant part of entertainment news, often referred to in discussions about music and celebrity.
- The incident, which resulted in Ozzy having to receive multiple rabies shots, not only became a staple in Ozzy's public image but also inspired various health-and-wellness themed memorabilia.
- Despite the seriousness of the incident, Ozzy humorously embraced it by adopting the nickname "The Bat Biter," using it to strengthen his connection with his audience and uphold his wild rock persona.
