Back to the Early Days: Ozzy Osbourne and Zakk Wylde Show Off Their Playful Side in 1988 Hit Parader Shoot…..
It was November 1988. Hair was big, guitars were loud, and metal ruled the world. Amidst the chaos of glam and the rise of thrash, there was one constant—Ozzy Osbourne being absolutely, unapologetically Ozzy. Whether he was biting heads off bats or turning interviews into stand-up routines, the Prince of Darkness was always equal parts madness and mirth. A prime example? A legendary and hilarious photo shoot with guitarist Zakk Wylde for Hit Parader magazine.
This now-iconic shoot, buried deep in rock history archives, captures Ozzy and Zakk at the height of their chemistry—not just as a musical force but as a comedic duo with a uniquely twisted sense of humor. The photos, filled with exaggerated poses, mischievous grins, and over-the-top metal flair, serve as a perfect reminder that Ozzy Osbourne, though often painted as a dark and brooding figure, has always had a light-hearted side that endeared him to fans across generations.
The 1988 shoot came not long after Zakk Wylde officially joined Ozzy’s band, stepping in to fill the massive shoes of Randy Rhoads and Jake E. Lee. At just 21 years old, Wylde brought an unrefined, energetic spirit to the band, and Ozzy quickly took to the New Jersey native. Their relationship extended far beyond music—what began as mentorship evolved into a deep friendship built on mutual respect and relentless goofing around.
In the Hit Parader spread, the chemistry is palpable. Ozzy—draped in leather, hair wild as ever—pulls exaggerated expressions while clutching a rubber chicken. Zakk, sporting his signature Les Paul and that unmistakable wide-eyed stare, plays the straight man to Ozzy’s antics. In one especially unforgettable photo, the two lock arms like schoolboys posing for a yearbook photo—except this yearbook is set to a soundtrack of screaming solos and demonic cackles.
At the time, Hit Parader was one of the premier rock magazines in America, giving fans behind-the-scenes access to their favorite bands. But few spreads matched the wild energy of Ozzy and Zakk’s November 1988 feature. The accompanying article gave insight into their dynamic: Ozzy teasing Zakk mercilessly, and Zakk responding with the earnest admiration of a young guitarist who couldn’t believe he was on tour with his hero.
“Ozzy just keeps me on my toes,” Zakk said in the piece. “One minute he’s giving me the most serious advice about life on the road, and the next he’s mooning the bus driver.”
Fans today look back at that photo shoot as a snapshot of an era where metal wasn’t just about aggression and rebellion—it was about camaraderie, irreverence, and having fun while breaking the rules. Ozzy’s prankster persona, which was often overshadowed by his more controversial headlines, is on full display here.
For many who grew up during that era, that Hit Parader issue became a prized possession—thumbed through endlessly, its pages worn with love. It was a rare chance to see the faces behind the ferocity, stripped of pretense and full of personality.
Looking back now, decades later, the humor and warmth radiating from that 1988 photo shoot still resonates. It speaks to the enduring appeal of Ozzy Osbourne—not just as a metal icon but as a cultural figure who, despite the darkness of his stage persona, always found time to crack a joke, strike a ridiculous pose, and remind everyone that even in heavy metal, laughter is a powerful force.
In 2025, as Ozzy continues to reflect on his incredible legacy, moments like the Hit Parader shoot remain fan favorites. They capture a simpler time—a raw, authentic glimpse of two musicians having the time of their lives.
And for those who were lucky enough to witness it firsthand, or who have recently stumbled upon the images thanks to social media, one thing is clear: Ozzy has always been a jokester. And we wouldn’thave it any other way.