JACK OSBOURNE On OZZY OSBOURNE A.I. Avatar: ‘The Backlash, It Was My Own Fault’
Jack Osbourne says he was responsible for the backlash to plans for an AI avatar of his father, Ozzy Osbourne, because he did not explain the project clearly. He says the family wants to preserve and control Ozzy’s digital likeness and intellectual property as AI becomes more common.
The avatar is being developed with digital-human company Hyperreal and Proto Hologram, and is intended to converse with fans and move and speak in a way that reflects Ozzy. Jack says it will use a closed AI system, not connected to the internet, built from information Ozzy gave or that was accurately written about him. He has described the project as a way to manage the family’s digital rights and pass them on to future generations.
In short
- Jack Osbourne says poor explanation caused the avatar backlash.
- The family says it will control Ozzy’s digital likeness.
- The avatar is planned to interact with fans using a closed AI system.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A carefully controlled avatar could let fans interact with a likeness built from Ozzy’s own contributions and reliable records, while giving his family a way to protect and manage his digital identity. Supporters may see that stewardship as preferable to others using the technology without the family’s consent, and as a way to preserve his public presence for future generations.
The case against
Even with family oversight and a closed system, a conversational avatar may make it harder to distinguish Ozzy’s own words and choices from simulations created after his death. Critics may question whether fans’ interest justifies recreating a person’s voice and manner, and whether safeguards will remain adequate as the technology and its uses change.
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