Historic Moment in Birmingham, England – July 5, 2025: James Hetfield of Metallica Sits on the Iconic Black Sabbath Bridge, Paying Tribute to the Birthplace of Heavy Metal
On July 5, 2025, Birmingham, England—widely recognized as the birthplace of heavy metal—witnessed a powerful and emotional tribute from one of the genre’s modern icons. James Hetfield, frontman of Metallica, was spotted sitting on the iconic Black Sabbath Bridge, quietly honoring the band that laid the foundation for heavy metal over five decades ago.
The bridge, named after the legendary Birmingham-born band Black Sabbath, spans the canal near Broad Street and features the famous steel bench sculpture depicting the band’s original lineup. Hetfield, dressed simply in a leather jacket and jeans, sat beside the monument in silent reflection for several minutes before greeting a few lucky fans and local press.
“It’s humbling to be here,” Hetfield said. “Without Black Sabbath, there would be no Metallica—no heavy metal as we know it. This place is sacred ground.”
The moment marked the culmination of Metallica’s visit to the UK leg of their *M72 World Tour*, but Hetfield’s solo visit to the bridge was unannounced, making it all the more meaningful to fans who happened to be nearby. Many have taken to social media to express their awe at the sight, calling it a “full circle” moment in metal history.
Birmingham City Council praised the tribute, noting that Hetfield’s gesture reinforces the global cultural importance of the city’s musical legacy. With plans underway to expand heavy metal heritage tourism in the region, Hetfield’s visit is likely to become a defining image of that effort.
As Hetfield walked away from the bridge, he turned once more, giving a subtle nod to the sculpture—an enduring salute to the legends who started it all.
