Rod Stewart’s Bizarre AI Ozzy Osbourne Tribute Video Sparks Controversy
August 4, 2025
Rod Stewart’s attempt to honor the late Ozzy Osbourne during his “One Last Time” U.S. tour has taken a peculiar and controversial turn, drawing both criticism and ridicule from fans and media alike. Following Osbourne’s passing on July 22, 2025, at age 76, Stewart began dedicating his 1988 hit “Forever Young” to the Black Sabbath legend during concerts. Initially, the tribute featured a simple, respectful image of Osbourne on the big screen. However, recent performances have introduced an AI-generated video that has left audiences bewildered and divided.
The video, first captured at Stewart’s August 1 concert at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre near Atlanta, Georgia, depicts an AI-rendered Ozzy Osbourne in a heavenly setting, using a selfie stick to take photos with deceased music icons including Freddie Mercury, Kurt Cobain, Tina Turner, Prince, Bob Marley, Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, 2Pac, and controversially, Michael Jackson and XXXTentacion. The surreal imagery, described as having an “off-putting digital sheen,” has been met with fan reactions ranging from amusement to outright disapproval, with social media comments labeling it “soooo weird” and “hell nah.”
Stewart, 80, reportedly acknowledged the video’s somber undertones during his July 29 show in Charlotte, North Carolina, stating, “Very sad. A lot of those people died ’cause of drugs… I’m still here, though!” according to the Charlotte Observer. This comment, paired with the inclusion of figures like Jackson, who faced unproven allegations of child molestation, and XXXTentacion, whose controversial past includes legal issues, has fueled criticism over the tribute’s tone and taste.
The tribute’s origins trace back to an Instagram account known for similar AI-generated content, suggesting Stewart’s team adapted the clip for his performances. While intended as a heartfelt gesture—Stewart posted a touching message on Instagram after Osbourne’s death, saying, “Bye, bye Ozzy. Sleep well, my friend. I’ll see you up there — later rather than sooner”—the execution has been widely panned for its bizarre and unintentionally humorous portrayal.
Legal concerns have also surfaced regarding the use of AI-generated likenesses. In the United States, laws governing the use of a deceased person’s image vary by state. For instance, California’s right of publicity laws protect against unauthorized commercial use of a person’s likeness, but it’s unclear if such laws apply to non-commercial tributes like Stewart’s. The Osbourne family has not yet commented on the video, though they have been active in honoring Ozzy’s legacy, including a funeral procession in Birmingham attended by fans and notable figures like Elton John and Metallica members.
Critics argue the video undermines the gravity of Osbourne’s death, which followed a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Fans have expressed preference for Stewart’s earlier, simpler tribute, which used authentic photographs. As Stewart’s tour continues through the U.S. and into Europe, it remains to be seen whether he will address the backlash or adjust the tribute. For now, the AI video stands as a peculiar chapter in rock’s ongoing grapple with technology and remembrance.
For more on Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy, visit ozzy.com.