**ROCK ROYALTY COLLIDE: Ozzy Osbourne Meets Paul McCartney and Sparks One of Music’s Funniest Exchanges**
*October 2001 – London*
When Ozzy Osbourne finally met Paul McCartney backstage at an industry event in London in October 2001, the moment was a collision of two music worlds—one rooted in heavy metal chaos, the other in Beatles-born melody and charm. But what should’ve been a calm exchange between two legends turned into something both heartfelt and unexpectedly hilarious.
Ozzy, never one to hide his emotions, was visibly nervous. “Meeting Paul McCartney was like meeting Jesus Christ,” he later confessed in an interview. “I thought I was gonna wet myself.” Dressed in his signature all-black ensemble and trademark round shades, Ozzy walked up to Sir Paul with wide eyes and hands that couldn’t stop fidgeting.
McCartney, ever the gentleman, extended his hand warmly. “Ozzy, isn’t it? I’ve heard a few of your… louder songs,” he said with a playful grin. Ozzy, starstruck, blurted, “Paul, I named one of my dogs after you—but he’s mad as hell and bites everyone!”
Paul laughed so hard he nearly dropped his tea. “Well, at least he’s got some bite in him,” he said. “Maybe I’ll borrow him next time I do Glastonbury.”
The two ended up chatting for over twenty minutes, swapping stories about life on the road, crazy fan encounters, and how weird it is being a granddad when people still expect you to smash guitars.
Though their musical styles couldn’t be more different, the mutual respect between them was undeniable. It was a meeting of rock royalty—one full of admiration, unexpected humor, and just enough chaos to make it unforgettable. For Ozzy, the moment proved that even the Prince of Darkness can turn into a fanboy when standing bef
ore a Beatle.