"Oz" is an American prison drama television series set at a fictional men's prison, created by Tom Fontana and aired on the premium cable network HBO. The show premiered on July 12, 1997, and ran for six seasons, with the series finale airing on February 23, 2003. The nickname "Oz" refers to the Oswald State Correctional Facility, a level 4 maximum-security state prison set in an unspecified east coast state, with most story arcs taking place in "Emerald City," a wing named after a setting from the fictional Land of Oz. The series follows the struggles of inmates and staff within the prison, highlighting themes of power, survival, and the pursuit of personal needs. The show's narrator, inmate Augustus Hill, provides context, thematic analysis, and a sense of humor throughout the series. "Oz" takes advantage of the freedoms of premium cable to depict elements of coarse language, drug use, violence, frontal nudity, homosexuality, and religious conflicts. The show has been syndicated and broadcast internationally in various countries, showcasing its widespread appeal across different regions.

Richard Alfonso Martinez, known by his stage name Oz Fox, is a prominent figure in the Christian glam metal scene as the lead guitarist of the band Stryper. Born in 1961 in Whittier, California, Fox's musical journey began with a deep appreciation for various music genres, ultimately shaping his unique style heavily influenced by Eddie Van Halen. His exceptional skills and vocal talents led him to co-found Stryper in 1983, where he recorded, toured, and contributed to the band's success. Apart from his work with Stryper, Fox engaged in various projects, including his band SinDizzy and collaborations with other artists. Notably, he has also been involved in mentoring and developing aspiring musicians in Southern California. Additionally, Fox expanded his musical horizons by hosting a show on JCTV and joining the band Bloodgood. His personal life took a significant turn when he married Annie Lobert, a former sex-worker turned evangelical Christian, and faced health challenges, including a seizure and subsequent brain surgery. Despite adversity, Fox continues to leave an indelible mark on the music industry through his contributions to Stryper and his diverse musical endeavors.

Oscar "Oz" Sanchez, born on December 2, 1975, is a prominent American Paralympic handcyclist and triathlete. After sustaining a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident in 2001, this former Marine embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of competitive sports. He made his mark in handcycling, competing in the H5 classification, and achieved outstanding success. His impressive performance at the 2011 Parapan American Games, where he clinched gold in the road race and time trial for his classification, solidified his status as an elite athlete.Sanchez's remarkable achievements extend to the Paralympic Games, where he secured medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016. Additionally, he showcased his prowess at the UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships, earning medals in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Notably, his inspiring story is featured in the acclaimed 2009 documentary, "Unbeaten," directed by Steven C. Barber.Of Mexican American descent, Sanchez continues to inspire and uplift others with his extraordinary resilience and determination. His unwavering dedication to his sport and his remarkable achievements have solidified his legacy as a Paralympic icon.