Sharon Osbourne Confirms Ozzfest Return, Defends Controversial Ozzy AI Avatar

Sharon Osbourne has confirmed that Ozzfest will return while also defending the controversial AI avatar created to preserve Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy — a project that has already divided opinions among rock fans.

Speaking in a brand new interview with Metal Hammer, Sharon confirmed that Ozzfest will make its comeback in 2027 at Villa Park in Birmingham, the venue that played host to the venue that hosted Ozzy’s star-studded farewell concert, Back To The Beginning., Back To The Beginning. While no official dates or headliners have been locked in yet, Sharon noted that the possibility of a two-night stint in Birmingham remains on the table depending on fan demand. She previously mentioned plans to bring the festival to the U.S. for two dates as well, with an emphasis on discovering young, new talent.

Back To The Beginning Film and Biopic Progress

Fans eager to revisit the historic farewell gig will get their chance soon. A film documenting the Back To The Beginning show is slated for release this year, featuring performances from the entire lineup, ranging from Metallica and Guns N’ Roses to Black Sabbath and Ozzy himself.

Meanwhile, the long-gestating Ozzy biopic is finally making headway after years of setbacks. Sharon revealed that the project is now working with its second writer after previous drafts failed to capture the true voice of the singer. With a new script now finished, the production is preparing to send it out to prospective directors.

Defending the Digital Legacy

Perhaps the most contentious project in the pipeline is the interactive AI avatar of Ozzy, developed in partnership with tech companies Hyperreal and Proto Hologram. Designed to let fans interact with a digital version of the singer using AI technology inspired by Ozzy’s voice, appearance, and personality, the concept has drawn criticism online from skeptics calling it a cash grab.

Sharon strongly dismissed those criticisms in no uncertain terms. Pointing out that the idea has been in discussion for a decade, she defended the technology as a way to showcase Ozzy’s massive body of work for a new audience rather than relying strictly on archival 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?” Sharon said. If you don’t like it, don’t go see it. I’m not at people’s houses with a fucking gun, going, ‘Give me your money!’

The AI avatar project has already sparked debate among fans, but the Osbourne family says the goal is to preserve Ozzy’s legacy rather than replace him.

Created in collaboration with AI technology companies, the avatar is designed to be a highly realistic digital version of Ozzy, featuring his appearance, voice, and movements. The life-sized avatar will allow fans to interact with a virtual version of the Prince of Darkness, asking questions and receiving responses based on Ozzy’s own personality, memories, and previously recorded material.

Sharon and Jack Osbourne have defended the project, saying it is not about pretending Ozzy is still alive, but about creating a new way for future generations to connect with one of rock’s most influential figures.