Black Sabbath co-founder and drummer Bill Ward, 78, has shared a health update, stating he now primarily uses a wheelchair for mobility in public spaces.
Ward announced on Wednesday that he has begun using a wheelchair about 18 months ago, predominantly for navigating airports and public events. He clarified that he can still walk but experiences fatigue over longer distances, necessitating rest. "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," Ward wrote in a message to fans.
The musician emphasized that his need for a wheelchair does not signify retirement or illness. "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 stated. Ward encouraged fans to continue interacting with him, saying, "I don't bite, I'll just look different."
Ward, who turned 78 on May 5, 2026, expressed that his passion for drumming and creating music remains strong. "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 said. He added that he is making his situation public to maintain transparency, stating, "I’m making myself public and transparent about my new transport, and letting you know I'm OK."
Ward co-founded the iconic heavy metal band Black Sabbath with Ozzy Osbourne. The band, including Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi, was prominent in the 1970s. Osbourne died in November 2025.