In 2003, Walt Disney Studios unleashed a cinematic adventure that captured the hearts of millions with Pirates of the Caribbean. With its swashbuckling storyline, unforgettable characters, and cursed Aztec gold that kept pirates trapped between life and death, the film quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Starring Johnny Depp as the irreverent Captain Jack Sparrow, alongside Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, and Geoffrey Rush, the movie turned the pirate myth into a modern legend.
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One of the most fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from this blockbuster involves the casting process itself. While Depp’s unique vision for Jack Sparrow — part Rolling Stones rebel, part cartoon mischief—became central to the film’s charm, there was a surprising twist during casting.
In a revelation that sounds almost too wild to be true, it turns out that Disney once courted another famous rocker to potentially take on a key role.
In Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (2007), audiences were finally introduced to Captain Jack’s father, the infamous Captain Teague. And in a truly full-circle moment, Keith Richards was the man behind the pirate. Since he was Johnny Depp’s inspiration, his casting only made sense.
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However, apparently, Disney was interested in talking to other musicians.
According to reports and a tell-all on the podcast The Magnificent Others With Billy Corgan, Sharon Osbourne revealed an intriguing casting tidbit.
She explained that Disney had invited her husband, Ozzy Osbourne — the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath — to audition for the role that eventually went to Keith Richards’ inspiration. As Sharon Osbourne put it,
“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?”
Imagine the scene: Ozzy Osbourne, with his unmistakable rock ‘n’ roll swagger and a voice that defined an era, almost stepping into the shoes of a character as iconic as Captain Teague — the very embodiment of pirate lore.
Though the opportunity ultimately didn’t materialize (thanks in no small part to Osbourne’s own wife), the mere possibility of his involvement adds a thrilling layer to the film’s legacy.
While Keith Richards eventually took on the role of Captain Teague in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End and On Stranger Tides (2011), the casting process itself became quite a moment in pirate history.
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Richards’ appearance in the film delighted fans and added to the mystique of the franchise, reaffirming that the creative team behind the movie was willing to push the envelope when it came to authenticity and star power.
Even though a Pirates role wasn’t meant to be, Ozzy has kept his connection to Hollywood alive by lending his distinctive voice to animated features like Gnomeo & Juliet (2011), Sherlock Gnomes (2018), and Trolls World Tour (2020). He’s also made memorable cameo appearances in films like Little Nicky (2000) and Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002).
However, health issues have taken their toll on the rock icon. In 2020, Ozzy revealed his battle with Parkinson’s disease, and by 2023, he had retired from touring due to a long-standing spinal issue. Just recently, he announced he could no longer walk because of his condition.
Despite these challenges, Ozzy’s near-involvement in one of Disney’s most beloved franchises remains a legendary “what if” moment.
It’s a reminder of how even the most unexpected candidates can almost change the course of film history, merging the worlds of rock ‘n’ roll and high-seas adventure in a way that only Disney could dream up.
So, would you have loved to see Ozzy Osbourne take on the role of Captain Teague? Or do you think Keith Richards was the perfect fit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
