Sharon Osbourne has addressed the backlash regarding the creation of an AI version of her husband, Ozzy Osbourne, which some have criticized as merely a money-making venture. On a recent episode of The Osbournes podcast, Sharon tackled claims that their family is exploiting technological advancements for financial gain.
During the discussion, Sharon and their son Jack emphasized that the AI representation of Ozzy is a significant technological innovation, arguing that if they don't pursue it, others might. Jack clarified that it's a "closed AI module," completely disconnected from the Internet. He recalled a comment from a critic about the dangers of AI, jokingly responding, “What the fuck do you think this is? Terminator? You think Ozzy is going to launch the nukes?”
Jack further explained that this project is not about creating an illusion of Ozzy's ongoing presence. Sharon interjected, affirming, “He is still alive. He's left us a body of work that will never die.”
The duo expressed their aim to keep Ozzy's legacy alive, with Sharon stating that she feels sorry for those who think this initiative is financially motivated. “I’m not asking for your involvement. I don’t want your fucking money. I don’t need your fucking money. I’m doing very well,” she remarked.
She believes Ozzy would have been supportive of this venture, stating, “For someone to accuse me of a cash grab? No, they don’t know my husband. My husband would often ask, ‘After I go, how long do you think I’ll be remembered?’”
In May, the Osbourne family revealed their collaboration with Hyperreal and Proto Hologram to develop an AI version of the "Prince of Darkness," which will interact with fans and be accessible in Proto Luma units in both the U.K. and U.S. later this summer. Despite some misunderstandings surrounding the technology, concerns about the project have arisen.
Jack had previously addressed these worries during a livestream Q&A, assuring fans that “it’s not gonna be fucking lame.” He explained the complexity of the project, clarifying, “This isn't just connecting an image of my dad to ChatGPT. We’re working with cutting-edge technology that will feel incredibly real when used.”
He also revealed that he had discussed concepts like this with his father before his passing last year, feeling confident that Ozzy would have embraced it. “We actually talked about it before he passed. It’s something I know he would be into,” Jack shared.
Remington Scott, the CEO of Hyperreal, told Rolling Stone that the Ozzy avatar was created using patented technology allowing it to function in real-time. The company utilizes a unique “Digital DNA” technology to gather the necessary data to bring the avatars to life.
“It can perform live, engage with audiences, and exist in interactive settings,” Scott explained. “This isn’t just pre-rendered content on a loop. It’s a living performance, composed solely from authenticated material that is curated, consented to, and controlled by those who were closest to Ozzy.”
