Sharon Osbourne has pushed back against criticism surrounding the planned AI-powered digital avatar of her late husband, heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, stating that the project is not a way to exploit his legacy for financial gain.
In a new interview with Metal Hammer, Sharon discussed several upcoming projects involving Ozzy’s legacy, including the planned return of ‘Ozzfest’ and the upcoming theatrical release of the ‘Back To The Beginning’ concert film.
Sharon revealed that plans are moving forward for ‘Ozzfest’ to return in 2027 with events planned for Villa Park in Birmingham, UK, along with a potential United States stop. According to Sharon, an official announcement is expected soon, with final bookings still being arranged.
The conversation also touched on the upcoming ‘Back To The Beginning’ live concert film, which documents Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s final live performance. The film was announced last year and is expected to arrive later this year.
However, one of the biggest topics discussed was the controversial plan to create a life-size AI-powered digital avatar of Ozzy Osbourne using Proto Luma’s holoportation technology.
The project has received a mixed response from fans, with some criticizing the idea as an attempt to monetize Ozzy’s image after his passing. Sharon rejected those accusations, explaining that the concept was something Ozzy himself supported.
“I’ve seen such shit online about it being a ‘money grab’. Why would I need to do that? It’s not as if I’m using Ozzy to sell fucking weedkiller or beer. Ozzy loved the idea. We’ve been talking about it for 10 years. Ozzy has this great body of work that took a lifetime to do – why shouldn’t he still be seen?”
Sharon continued by stating that modern technology allows fans to experience Ozzy’s work in new ways rather than repeatedly watching older footage.
“Why should we have to watch the same videos over and over again, when there’s technology available that means we don’t have to? If you don’t like it, don’t go see it.”
She also pushed back against the idea that fans were being forced to support the project, comparing the criticism to an unfair assumption about the family’s intentions.
“I’m not at people’s houses with a fucking gun, going, ‘Give me your money!’”
The planned Ozzy Osbourne AI avatar remains one of the more debated projects connected to the legendary musician’s posthumous legacy, with fans continuing to discuss the role of technology in preserving and presenting the work of iconic artists.
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