From Rock Stages to Pirate Ships: The Iconic Musician Who Almost Starred in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’!
When Pirates of the Caribbean burst onto the scene in 2003, Walt Disney Studios redefined adventure on the high seas. The film, with its blend of cursed Aztec gold and swashbuckling heroics, transformed the pirate mythos for a new generation.
With Johnny Depp’s unforgettable turn as Captain Jack Sparrow, alongside Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, and Geoffrey Rush, the franchise quickly became a cultural phenomenon that resonated with audiences worldwide.
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What many fans might not know, however, is that the casting process for this blockbuster had its own set of surprises. Behind the scenes, Disney was exploring unconventional options to capture that elusive pirate spirit.
According to revelations on the podcast The Magnificent Others With Billy Corgan, an astonishing possibility emerged: Disney once invited legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne to audition for a role in the film.
In an exclusive interview, Sharon Osbourne shared,
“He got offered to go and read for Pirates of the Caribbean, and I’ve never said this to anyone. I said no. Now wouldn’t he have been perfect? Because when Johnny … wanted Keith [Richards] to be a pirate, you remember?”
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Imagine the impact of seeing Ozzy, with his iconic status as the frontman of Black Sabbath, lend his gritty, rock-infused persona to the pirate world. Although the opportunity didn’t materialize —thanks in large part to Osbourne’s decision — the idea of Ozzy stepping into a role akin to Captain Teague adds an electrifying twist to the film’s legacy.
While Keith Richards eventually became synonymous with the role of Captain Teague in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (2007) and On Stranger Tides (2011), the mere prospect of Ozzy’s involvement remains a tantalizing “what if” moment.
Richards’ portrayal was a full-circle nod to the rebellious spirit that influenced Johnny Depp’s creation of Captain Jack Sparrow, a character meant to embody both mischief and mystique.
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But the thought of Ozzy Osbourne, whose raw energy and unmistakable rock ‘n’ roll swagger could have redefined the pirate image, continues to captivate fans and spark conversation.
Over the years, Ozzy has maintained his connection to Hollywood by lending his unique voice to films like Gnomeo & Juliet (2011), Sherlock Gnomes (2018), and Trolls World Tour (2020). He’s even made cameo appearances in cult classics like Little Nicky (2000) and Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002).
However, health challenges have recently forced the rock icon to step back from the limelight. After revealing his battle with Parkinson’s disease in 2020 and retiring from touring in 2023 due to a persistent spinal issue, Ozzy announced just weeks ago that he could no longer walk.
Despite these setbacks, the near-casting of Ozzy Osbourne in Pirates of the Caribbean remains one of the most intriguing “what if” stories in Hollywood history. It’s a testament to Disney’s bold approach in blending worlds that seem worlds apart—the fantastical realm of pirates with the untamed spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
What do you think? Would you have loved to see Ozzy Osbourne take on a pirate role, or do you believe Keith Richards was the perfect fit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
