Sharon and Jack Osbourne Push Back Against Criticism of AI-Generated Ozzy Avatar, Rejecting Claims of Exploitation
By Website Content Manager
The pair explained that the initiative is intended to preserve the memory of the Prince of Darkness following his passing last July.
Sharon and Jack Osbourne are responding to criticism surrounding their plans to create an AI-powered digital version of Ozzy Osbourne, rejecting claims that the project is motivated by profit.
During a recent episode of The Osbournes podcast, the pair addressed reactions to their announcement that a new artificial intelligence program will be developed using what they describe as Ozzy’s “digital DNA.” The initiative aims to create an interactive virtual representation of the legendary musician.
Following the announcement, some social media users accused the family of exploiting Ozzy’s legacy for financial gain. Sharon strongly disagreed with those accusations, arguing that technological advancements should be embraced rather than feared.
She expressed little concern for critics, emphasizing that participation in the project is entirely optional and insisting that financial motives are not driving the effort. Sharon maintained that she is already financially secure and has no need to profit from her late husband’s name.
The longtime television personality also argued that Ozzy himself would have supported the concept. According to Sharon, he often wondered how long people would continue to remember him after his death. For that reason, she believes the digital avatar aligns with his desire to leave a lasting impact on future generations.
Jack echoed those sentiments, stating that the project is not intended to create the illusion that Ozzy is still alive. Instead, he described it as a way to preserve his father’s presence and ensure that his influence remains accessible to fans for years to come. He added that if the family did not take charge of the idea, someone else likely would.
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 71 after suffering a heart attack at his Buckinghamshire home. His death came only weeks after his retirement from live performances. Earlier that month, he made a farewell appearance at the Back To The Beginning concert in Birmingham, performing both solo material and songs with fellow founding members of Black Sabbath. The event featured appearances from major rock and metal acts, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, Gojira, and Mastodon.
The AI project was officially introduced during a discussion panel at Licensing Expo 2026 in Las Vegas. During the event, Jack explained that the technology has become so sophisticated that the digital recreation can closely replicate Ozzy’s speech patterns, personality, and mannerisms.
He suggested that the virtual version of Ozzy could continue to exist indefinitely as technology evolves. According to Jack, modern AI tools now make it possible to create highly realistic digital appearances with minimal effort, allowing users to generate customized content featuring the avatar.
Sharon further explained that fans will eventually be able to interact directly with the digital Ozzy. She said users could ask questions and receive responses delivered in a voice and style designed to reflect what Ozzy himself might have said. The family hopes to make the experience available to audiences worldwide.
The project is being developed in partnership with Hyperreal, a company known for creating advanced digital recreations of public figures. The firm’s chief executive, Remington Scott, has previously highlighted how far the technology has progressed, making realistic age-altered and virtual performances increasingly achievable.
In addition to overseeing the AI initiative, Jack is also involved in producing a feature film based on Ozzy’s life. He recently revealed that a screenplay has already been completed, with the biopic expected to arrive sometime in 2028 or later.