Sharon Osbourne has opened up about the intricate relationships within her blended family, particularly her connection with Thelma Riley, the first wife of her late husband, Ozzy Osbourne, and their three children. In a candid conversation on the *Dumb Blonde* podcast, hosted by Bunnie XO, Sharon shared insights into the challenges and joys of navigating family ties that span decades.
A Blended Family Journey
The dynamic within Sharon’s family is undeniably multifaceted. She revealed that while her bond with Ozzy’s son, Louis, is strong, the relationship with Thelma and her children is layered with complexity. “I’m very close with Ozzy’s son,” Sharon expressed, highlighting the importance of unity within their family unit. “And you know, it’s always the way the girls go with the moms, the guys, you know. And we have a great relationship, and I adore him, and my kids adore him. It’s a unit, you know.”
Reflecting on the history that shaped their family, Sharon delved into the reasons behind Ozzy’s previous marriage to Thelma, which lasted from 1971 until 1982. She noted how Thelma had her own child before marrying Ozzy, which added layers to their relationship. “Ozzy’s wife was married very early,” Sharon noted, explaining that Thelma was already a mother when they met. This, coupled with Ozzy’s rising fame with Black Sabbath, contributed to the distance that grew between them.
Respect Amidst Differences
Despite the challenges, Sharon emphasised a mutual respect that characterised her interactions with Thelma. “That was their connection was the kids, and I knew her, but we were so different,” she admitted. Sharon described herself as a “big-mouthed flash kid,” in stark contrast to Thelma’s more reserved nature as a student. “I would come in a room and eff ‘em blind, you know, and she would look at me like ‘She’s crazy. She’s crazy.’ And I get it.”
Their differences, she explained, did not hinder their ability to co-parent effectively. Sharon was careful to maintain respect for Thelma, recognising her role as Ozzy’s first wife and the mother of his children. “I was always respectful to her because she was Ozzy’s wife and they had their children together.”
Remembering Ozzy
The conversation also touched upon the poignant loss of Ozzy, who passed away in July 2025 at the age of 76 due to a heart attack. Sharon reflected on the profound sadness of his departure, stating that he was surrounded by family and love at the time of his passing. “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,” his family shared in a heartfelt statement, urging everyone to respect their privacy during this tough time.
Why it Matters
Sharon Osbourne’s revelations serve as a reminder of the complexities inherent in blended families, particularly those formed from previous relationships. Her candid exploration of these dynamics offers a glimpse into the delicate balance of love, respect, and the challenges of co-parenting across different family structures. As families continue to evolve, stories like Sharon’s shed light on the importance of compassion and understanding in nurturing familial bonds, celebrating the shared connections that transcend personal differences.
