Ozzy’s Family Is MTV Hit

For 21 years MTV has delved into inside information on the stars of popular music and culture. But the biggest hit series it has ever had is the current family documentary on outrageous rocker Ozzy Osbourne.

Nearly 6.3 million people watched a Tuesday episode of “The Osbournes,” up from six million the week before. It´s getting more viewers than such MTV series as “Beavis and Butt-Head” and “Real World.”

Nielsen Media Research says “The Osbournes,” taped at the rocker´s California home, has pushed aside professional wrestling as cable television´s biggest show.

MTV has prepared three more original episodes before its season ends, and may try to use collected footage to create three additional shows.

With the popularity of the show, the Osbournes are reportedly concerned about being surrounded by tourists at their California home. They may film part of a new season in their second home in England.

Although he has a wild-man reputation, Osbourne is shown during the MTV series to be a loving, somewhat befuddled dad, who gives his children and young visitors sage advice about the dangers of sex, drugs and booze.