Yungblud has addressed the backlash he received for his performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, which was a tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. During his appearance on the Trying Not to Die podcast, co-hosted by Ozzy’s son, Jack Osbourne, Yungblud shared his thoughts on the criticism.
He said, “You’ll never see someone who’s bigger or more emotionally evolved talk trash about you.” He pointed out that icons like Metallica’s James Hetfield wouldn’t criticize younger artists because they understand the journey it takes to succeed.
While Yungblud didn’t name any critics, The Darkness guitarist Dan Hawkins had previously called the VMA performance “cynical” and “nauseating.” Yungblud explained that he was simply trying to honor Ozzy, who had given him so much inspiration. He added, “When people try to overthink a moment of musicians showing love on stage, it just comes off as bitter and jealous.”
Jack Osbourne also defended Yungblud, stating that he has been a friend of the Osbourne family for a long time. Yungblud emphasized that the critics are the ones trying to insert themselves into the conversation for relevance, while he was just there to celebrate one of rock’s greatest legends. “I just loved your dad,” he said, expressing his genuine admiration for Ozzy.
