Jason Momoa vividly recalls the time he joined the moshpit during Black Sabbath’s farewell show on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham. The actor, known for his roles in Aquaman and Game of Thrones, stepped away briefly from hosting duties just before Pantera’s set to immerse himself in the crowd’s energy.
Momoa described the experience as similar to surfing, capturing the chaotic and exhilarating feeling of being swept within the moshpit’s throng alongside his son, who was also present at the event.
A Surf-like Experience Amid the Crowd’s Frenzy
Reflecting on the intense atmosphere, Momoa said,
“Moshing at the Black Sabbath finale, it felt like being in big surf,”
describing how the crowd moved like a powerful undertow, knocking him off balance yet filling him with joy.
He added,
“It’s like a gigantic undertow. You can’t keep your feet up and you’re getting tossed everywhere and you’re laughing and you’re having the time of your life and you’re literally falling over and people are pulling you up. You know, it’s very hot in England right now, so you’re wet with other people’s sweat.”
Momoa emphasized the importance of sharing the experience with family:
“And I wanted to get my son out there. You want to experience things with your family members and so, for my boy, it was a memorable moment to get out there and do it to Pantera.”
He also expressed his eagerness to join the excitement firsthand, stating,
“Ultimately, I’d rather be in the pit with everybody, also because I’m a huge fan. Why the hell do you guys get to have all the fun?”
Tributes and Performances at Black Sabbath’s Farewell Show
The concert, titled Back To The Beginning, featured an extensive lineup honoring Black Sabbath’s legacy before the passing of lead singer Ozzy Osbourne just 17 days later. Alongside Pantera, bands including Metallica, Gojira, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, and Slayer delivered performances at the event held in Sabbath’s hometown.
Pantera’s return to the stage marked a notable reunion in 2022, reuniting vocalists Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown with newcomers Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante. This revival stirred debate due to the absence of founding members Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul Abbott, who passed away in 2004 and 2018.
Controversy also surrounded Anselmo, whose past behavior—including a 2016 incident involving a white power gesture—has divided fans and critics alike.
Significance of the Event and Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Performance
Black Sabbath’s final concert served as a poignant farewell to an iconic band, with Ozzy Osbourne’s retirement from touring announced in 2023 due to health concerns. His death at age 76 on July 22 shortly after the event underscored the show’s historic gravity.
Momoa’s participation in the moshpit highlights how the event drew people from various backgrounds, including dedicated fans and celebrities, to celebrate Sabbath’s enduring influence on heavy metal music and culture.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jason Momoa a billionaire?
A. Jason Momoa is estimated to have a net worth of about $40 million by 2025, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Q. Has Jason Momoa left his wife?
A. Bonet and Momoa were together as a couple for 12 years and married for over seven years. Bonet, who legally goes by Lilakoi Moon, initiated their divorce process in January. According to the paperwork, they had been separated since October 7, 2020, more than three years earlier. They publicly announced their separation in 2022.
