JUDAS PRIEST‘s Rob Halford says that legendary BLACK SABBATH frontman Ozzy Osbourne should be knighted for his contributions to the music industry.

Speaking to Classic Rock, Halford said: “If one person deserves a knighthood, it’s Ozzy Osbourne. Just for the joy he’s given people over the years.”

A year ago, it was reported that the U.K. government  confirmed that Ozzy was under consideration for a knighthood after thousands of people signed a petition aimed at getting the singer the accolade. In addition, several of Birmingham’s MPs called for Ozzy to be knighted.

In January 2023, the petition organizer received a letter from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport about her quest to get the SABBATH frontman the prestigious award. The letter said: “As you aware Mr Osbourne has been under consideration for an honour for a while. Unfortunately to date he has been unsuccessful. As I am sure you will appreciate there is extremely fierce competition for the very limited number of awards available.

“The fact that Mr Osbourne is not recognised by an honour does not mean that his contribution is not appreciated. With some 1,000 awards available in each round, and perhaps seix or seven times, unfortunately it is not possible for every candidate, however valuable their service, to succeed.

“However I can confirm this case remains under consideration at this time. However, we can unfortunately give no guarantee as to the eventual outcome or timescale.”

King Charles III‘s New Year Honours list recognizes the exceptional achievements of people across the United Kingdom and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion. The list is released annually by the government’s Cabinet Office in the name of the British monarch.

In March 2023, QUEEN guitarist Brian May was officially knighted by King Charles III. May was recognized for his half-century of memorable musical compositions and inspiring efforts in the arena of animal rights against fox hunting and badger culling.