"My only interest is Ozzy's well-being," says Sharon Osbourne.
Sharon Osbourne stated this week that her husband Ozzy is being blackmailed by AEG Live!, the company that promotes concerts and owns the O2 Arena in London and the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
According to Sharon, the company is engaging in illegal practices by forcing Ozzy to perform at the Staples Center.
The problem arose when the Prince of Darkness was finalizing a deal to play at the O2 Arena in London, and the company included a clause in the contract obligating Ozzy to play at the Staples Center if he wanted to play anywhere in Los Angeles.
Since Live Nation, AEG Live's main competitor, booked an Ozzy Osbourne show in Los Angeles as part of the "No More Tours 2" tour, Ozzy would also be forced to play at the Staples Center.
"Shame on you, AEG Live!, for using an artist to fight with your competitor, Live Nation. I guarantee that Live Nation would never do that ," said Sharon Osbourne.
AEG Live! CEO Jay Maricano responded, “Dear Sharon, Thank you for your message. Please understand that this dispute is between the venues and I agree with you – it shouldn’t be the artist’s choice. We look forward to the days when artists and fans come first. PS – The other guys started it!”
The next day, Sharon responded directly:
“This is a clear attempt to blackmail Ozzy into playing at your venue in Los Angeles. It’s a complete abuse of commercial power and is not in accordance with the free market. If you don’t confirm Ozzy’s date at the O2 Arena in London, I will be forced to take legal action against AEG Live! immediately.”
Sharon concludes:
“The way you talk and run your company sounds like children's playground tactics. I can't be involved in a dispute between two venue owners, since my only interest is Ozzy's well-being.”
AEG Live! declined to comment on Sharon Osbourne's latest statement.