**Why Bill Ward Was the Key to One Final Black Sabbath Reunion on July 5th**
In the lead-up to their historic final performance at *Back to the Beginning* on July 5th, Black Sabbath have revealed that **Bill Ward** — the band’s original drummer — was the crucial reason behind the long-awaited reunion of the full classic lineup.
Speaking candidly in interviews ahead of the show, **Ozzy Osbourne**, **Tony Iommi**, and **Geezer Butler** all acknowledged that bringing Bill back into the fold was essential in making this last performance feel truly complete. “Without Bill, it just wouldn’t be Sabbath,” said Osbourne. “He’s not just a drummer — he’s part of the heart and soul of this band.”
Tensions and disagreements had kept Ward out of previous reunions, including Sabbath’s 2013 album *13* and the accompanying farewell tour. But time, reflection, and the significance of this final show helped bridge the divide. According to Iommi, the band had all come to realize that “if we were ever going to do this right — one last time, the proper way — it had to include Bill.”
Ward, now 77, had previously expressed his desire to return only if conditions were fair and the emotional space was right. It seems that, for this one night, the stars aligned. “It took a lot of conversations, a lot of honesty,” said Butler. “But the love has always been there.”
The performance proved the decision was the right one. Despite the physical challenges of age, Ward delivered with power and poise, drawing massive cheers from the crowd. The chemistry between the four was immediate — like no time had passed.
July 5th wasn’t just a reunion — it was a restoration. And it was Bill Ward who brought the final piece of Black Sabbath’s
legacy home.
