Sharon Osbourne has hit back at accusations that a planned artificial intelligence recreation of her late husband, Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne, is a 'cash grab'. Speaking alongside her son Jack, Sharon insisted the project would be handled with sensitivity and artistic integrity.
'This isn't about making a quick pound,' she told reporters. 'It's about keeping Ozzy's spirit alive in a way that feels right for the fans and for our family. We're working with top AI specialists to ensure it's tasteful and creative.' Ozzy, who died in 2025, was one of the most iconic figures in British rock history.
The announcement has divided opinion. Some fans have welcomed the chance to see a digital version of the singer, while others argue that using AI to mimic a deceased performer is disrespectful. Music industry insiders have also raised concerns about the ethical implications of 'reanimating' artists without their explicit consent, though Sharon maintains Ozzy was aware of the concept before his death.
No broadcast or streaming platform has yet been confirmed for the project. However, given the Osbournes' long association with UK television — including their BAFTA-nominated reality series — a deal with a major streamer such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, or a traditional broadcaster like ITV or BBC, is widely anticipated. The family has not ruled out a theatrical release or a limited series format.
The debate comes at a time when AI-generated content is increasingly scrutinised in the UK entertainment industry. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) recently updated its guidelines on AI use in film and television, and the Brit Awards have yet to comment on whether AI recreations of deceased musicians would be eligible for future honours.