Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne: A Controversial Farewell in New Documentary
The documentary Coming Home, which provides an intimate look at Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne’s life as they prepare to return to the UK from the United States, sparked debate over its timing and emotional content. Originally intended for release in August, shortly after Ozzy’s death at 76 from a heart attack, the film was postponed following a request from the grieving family. It has since been aired, highlighting both the couple’s public persona and the private struggles they faced, reports BritPanorama.
Set against the backdrop of their Los Angeles home, the film shows Sharon desiring to renovate their English estate, which she points out was once a lunatic asylum. Ozzy exuberantly affirms, “I’ve got a madhouse in England!” This playful banter, while aligned with their established on-screen antics, raises questions about the appropriateness of sharing such moments during a period of profound personal grief.
Initially envisioned as a 10-part series reflecting on their retirement, the project was condensed to a single episode due to Ozzy’s declining health. This has resulted in a somewhat disjointed narrative, leaving viewers wanting more depth and insight into the family’s dynamics as they confront the impending changes to their lives.
The film predominantly features discussions with their children, Kelly and Jack, about their mixed feelings regarding the couple’s return to the UK and the implications for their family bonds. However, these conversations often feel superficial, avoiding the more profound emotional debates that the family likely grappled with privately.
Amidst the relocation preparations, Sharon is shown orchestrating extensive renovations with a team of builders, reflecting her efforts to create a comfortable new home for Ozzy. Despite these updates, the film does not sufficiently cover Ozzy’s struggle with his health conditions, particularly as he aims to prepare for his farewell concert. The lack of rehearsal footage or insight into the event itself leaves a significant void regarding this pivotal moment in Ozzy’s life.
As the film concludes abruptly with the mention of flowers on the street following his funeral, it underscores the tension between the Osbournes’ public image and their private grief. The documentary has drawn criticism for being invasive, showcasing a celebrity navigating mortality while his family seeks privacy.
Coming Home offers a glimpse into a touching but ultimately problematic narrative. As audiences witness the complexity of life shared in the public eye, it raises vital questions about the boundaries of documenting personal tragedies.
‘Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne: Coming Home’ is streaming on BBC iPlayer
