The statement reads: "The Osbournes and Sony Music are in the process of parting ways after 23 years. Sharon Osbourne and Sony mutually agreed that Kelly Osbourne would depart the label after former CEO Tommy Mottola resigned this past January."

In the statement Sharon herself was quoted as saying: "We've had 23 great years together. We've shared many great successes, but sometimes you have to search out fresh blood to get fresh ideas which is a philosophy that every record company, especially Sony, understands."

Sony won't be too bothered about losing Kelly whose album, despite the blanket MTV coverage, didn't do too well commercially. Some insiders reckon it was Sony's refusal to invest in Kelly long term that has led to a knee jerk reaction over Ozzy's long standing recording contract. Certainly the loss of Ozzy will be a much bigger concern for Sony management.