Due to his doctors' orders, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, Ozzy Osbourne has been forced to cancel his appearance at Download Festival (Sydney and Melbourne) next month.
This follows news of the postponement of the entire UK and European leg of his 'No More Tours 2' tour. "Ozzy recently developed pneumonia and has spent some time in hospital," Sharon Osbourne said in a supplied statement.
"Thankfully he is now through the worst part, his doctors have advised that he stay at home to recuperate for a full six weeks with no travel."
It is obviously a devastating blow for both the festival and punters alike. "We are extremely disappointed to have to bring this news to you, our Download family," event organisers said, "however it should go without saying, Ozzy’s health and well-being is number one.
"We wish Ozzy all the best in his recovery and hope he is back to full health as soon as possible."
Given the short time-frame before both events, Download have put an ice-pack on the bruising announcing Warrnambool legends Airbourne as a replacement.
"It is impossible to replace Ozzy Osbourne at any time, but three weeks out from Download there is no chance of us securing an act to replace the headline slot.
"[But] we are pleased to announce Aussie hard-rock kings, Airbourne will join the Download line-up and thank them for joining us with such short notice."
'In lieu of Ozzy’s cancellation, we will also offer all current ticket holders a merchandise voucher to the value of $45 plus postage and handling available from our online shop at 24hundred.net from 9am AEDT Monday 4 March, 2019. Ticket holders must enter their ticket number to redeem the voucher. This voucher is only redeemable online and cannot be redeemed at the event. Voucher is valid for the full Official Event Merchandise range.'
