Sharon Osbourne Fires Back at Critics: Ozzy's AI Avatar Isn't a 'Cash Grab,' It's Legacy
Sharon Osbourne has vehemently defended the controversial AI avatar of her late husband, Ozzy Osbourne, pushing back against accusations of a 'cash grab' and emphasizing its role in preserving his enduring legacy for future generations.
Sharon Osbourne has fiercely hit back at critics labeling the upcoming AI avatar of her late husband, Ozzy Osbourne, a 'cash grab,' declaring, 'I don’t need your fucking money.'
The news of a digital Prince Of Darkness avatar was confirmed last month by Sharon and their son, Jack Osbourne, at Licensing Expo in Las Vegas. They revealed a partnership with tech company Hyperreal to create this digital version of the heavy metal icon, who passed away last summer at 76.
The announcement quickly sparked debate among fans, with some deeming the move distasteful. Jack previously addressed the backlash on his YouTube channel, assuring fans the project would be 'tasteful' and not 'lame.' He clarified it wasn't merely 'hooking up an image of my dad to ChatGPT' and stressed that Ozzy himself had been keen on the idea before his passing.
Now, Sharon has joined the defense, dismissing financial motivations. On The Osbournes Podcast, she framed the avatar as a natural progression of technology, likening it to the shift from propeller planes to jets. 'Well, you know what, technology moves on,' she asserted.
She directly challenged those accusing them of a 'cash grab': 'I’m not asking you to come. I don’t want your fucking money. I don’t need your fucking money. I’m doing very well.'
Sharon emphasized that Ozzy would have fully supported the initiative. 'For somebody to turn around to me and say I’m doing a cash grab? No, you don’t know my husband, OK? I know my husband,' she stated, recalling Ozzy's frequent pondering: 'After I go, how long do you think I’ll be remembered?'
She views the avatar as a way to ensure Ozzy's legacy 'will pass on through our family' and help his grandchildren remember him. Jack echoed this sentiment, adding a pragmatic perspective: 'Either we do it or someone else is gonna do it. And for me, it’s not about pretending he’s still alive. It’s making sure he’s never forgotten.'
Beyond the digital realm, Jack Osbourne has also confirmed that a biopic chronicling his parents' lives is 'absolutely' moving forward, eyeing a 2028 release.
Rumors of the film date back to 2021. The script is being penned by Oscar-nominee Lee Hall (known for Rocketman and Billy Elliott) and developed by Sony Pictures and Polygram.
While the actor to portray the heavy metal legend remains unconfirmed, speculation has swirled around Yungblud. Piers Morgan once asked Sharon if the Doncaster singer, a close family friend who performed at the final Black Sabbath show and often expresses admiration for Ozzy, was being considered. Her response? 'I’m not saying a word.'
Earlier this year, Jack tantalizingly revealed that a 'phenomenal, phenomenal actor' had been chosen for the role, though he kept the identity under wraps.
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