Universal Studios is reviving the iconic "Prince of Darkness" haunted house experience this fall, dedicating new attractions to rock legend Ozzy Osbourne at both its Hollywood and Orlando theme parks. The announcement, made on Wednesday, comes shortly after the first anniversary of Osbourne's death at age 76.
Osbourne's family, including his widow Sharon and son Jack, approved the haunted houses, stating that Universal has done an "incredible job" in creating what they consider a "wonderful tribute" to the musician. "Ozzy never stopped pushing boundaries, and he loved anything that gave fans a new way to experience his music and the worlds he created," the family said in a statement. "Halloween Horror Nights has done an incredible job bringing that spirit to life. Walking through these haunted houses, you’ll recognize so many moments inspired by his music and imagination."
This is not the first time Universal has collaborated with Osbourne. In 2013, the parks featured a haunted house called "Black Sabbath: 13-3D," which was approved by Osbourne and his band Black Sabbath. John Murdy, executive producer of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, noted Osbourne's significant influence, stating, "Ozzy Osbourne didn’t just help define heavy metal—he created a cultural phenomenon that has influenced generations of music, art and horror."
Murdy added that the new haunted house aims to honor Osbourne's "extraordinary solo career," drawing inspiration from all 13 of his albums. Guests will journey through surreal worlds influenced by his music, from "Madman Ozzy" and "Werewolf Ozzy" to the "Prince of Darkness."
The attractions will differ between the two resort locations. In California, the house will begin by transporting guests to Osbourne's hometown of Birmingham, England, and follow his career chronologically, starting with his song "Crazy Train." The Orlando resort's house will also feature the "Crazy Train" theme but will focus on a twisted ride through realms inspired by the album covers of "Diary of a Madman," "Bark at the Moon," "The Ultimate Sin," and "Black Rain," reflecting the heavier sound and sinister imagery of his later career.
Mike Aiello, senior director of entertainment creative development at Universal Orlando Resort, expressed his honor in collaborating with the Osbourne family. "It was important for us to create an authentic experience that brings Ozzy’s creativity and personality to life in an eerily immersive new way," Aiello said. "Fans will discover so many meaningful details, including a few Easter Eggs, as they navigate memorable dark and twisted moments inspired by his iconic musical career."
The new Ozzy Osbourne haunted houses are set to open alongside other attractions at Universal Hollywood on September 3 and at Universal Orlando on August 28. Other announced houses for Halloween Horror Nights include attractions based on "Sinners," "Stranger Things," "Hellraiser," and "Evil Dead."