min read · August 7, 2025 · Entertainment

Rod Stewart's AI Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne Sparks Heated Backlash: Heaven or Hell?

ROD STEWART'S AI TRIBUTE TO OZZY OSBOURNE BACKFIRES: Fans Slam Singer for 'Disrespectful' Video of Late Rock Legends in Heaven

In a move that has left fans and critics alike scratching their heads, Rod Stewart's latest tribute to his friend and fellow rock legend Ozzy Osbourne has sparked widespread outrage. The 80-year-old Scottish singer, who is currently on tour, unveiled a bizarre AI-generated video earlier this week showcasing Ozzy taking selfies with other deceased musical icons in what appears to be the afterlife.

The video, which was displayed at one of Rod's concerts, features a range of legendary stars including Michael Jackson, Amy Winehouse, Prince, XXXTentacion, Tina Turner, and Bob Marley, all posing together with Ozzy. However, fans have taken to social media to express their disgust and outrage over the "disrespectful" clip.

Fans Slam Rod's Tribute as 'Wild', 'Weird', and 'Hauntingly Poetic' - But Mostly Just Plain Disgusting

"This is bizarre for many reasons, not the least of which being the fact that Rod Stewart has performed with Ozzy Osbourne," one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Instead of blasting AI images of Ozzy in heaven, they could show this real & quite lovely picture of Rod Stewart with his arm around the actual Ozzy Osbourne."

Another fan concurred, stating: "Rod Stewart could've literally just put up a photo of him with Ozzy, instead of this weird AI video. What's next? Using AI to recreate historic concerts or something?"

But not all fans were outraged by the video. One user defended Rod's tribute, saying: "This is such a beautiful video. One that makes you think that he has reunited by legendary musicians who we have lost. There’s not a single ounce of disrespect in it."

Rod Tries to Get Spiritual with His Tribute - But Fails Miserably

After the performance, Rod reportedly told the crowd: "Very sad. A lot of those people died 'cause of drugs… I'm still here, though!" The comment has been met with ridicule and scorn from fans who feel that he's trying to use Ozzy's death as a way to gain sympathy and attention.

However, it seems that Rod's representatives are trying to spin the situation. "The gesture is coming from a good place," one fan wrote, "but it could have been done in a better way."

Is This the Beginning of AI-Generated Tributes Gone Wrong?

This isn't the first time that Rod has used AI-generated images or videos in his performances. But this latest tribute has sparked a heated debate over the use of technology to create fake versions of deceased celebrities.

As one fan pointed out: "I would have preferred it each each of their pictures get added one by one to a group picture like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band." This comment highlights the cringe-worthy nature of Rod's tribute, and many fans are now calling for him to be held accountable.

Ozzy's Family Appears to Have Given Their Blessing - But Will It Be Enough?

After the backlash, Ozzy's official account reposted a tribute shared by Rod on July 22. The post read: "Bye, bye Ozzy. Sleep well, my friend. I'll see you up there — later rather than sooner." However, it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to quell the outrage.