American heavy metal band Pantera have cancelled three shows and rescheduled two others in the wake of Ozzy Osbourne’s death, saying they need time to mourn someone they have long considered family.
In a statement shared over the weekend, the band described Osbourne as more than just a heavy metal icon, calling him a mentor, a brother and a constant presence both on and off stage. The decision to cancel shows, they said, was made out of respect not just for Ozzy but for their own team, many of whom worked closely with him over the years.
Pantera’s connection with Ozzy runs deep. Pantera were part of Osbourne’s final performance in Birmingham earlier this month, sharing the stage at the massive Back To The Beginning show alongside Metallica, Tool, Slayer, KoRn, Rage Against The Machine and others. The night, which was billed as a celebration of Ozzy’s career, has now taken on a more final and emotional weight.
Zakk Wylde, who currently plays guitar in Pantera, spent decades performing with Ozzy as part of his solo band. The two first worked together in 1987 and remained close throughout multiple eras of Ozzy’s career. Wylde joined him on stage for his final set in Birmingham on 5 July, just over two weeks before the singer’s death.
The rescheduled shows include Saratoga Springs, now moved to 9 September, and Holmdel, now taking place on 8 September. Concerts in Gilford, Virginia Beach and Birmingham have been cancelled completely.
While most bands would post a quick tribute and move on, Pantera’s decision to pause touring actually feels personal. Their history with Ozzy stretches back to the Ozzfest era and beyond, and it’s clear they’re taking this loss seriously. In a genre known for volume, sometimes the most respectful response right now is a moment of quiet. And that’s exactly what Pantera are having.
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