The sculptor who created a much-maligned tribute to Lucille Ball in her western New York hometown says he'll replace the statue for free after criticism of his depiction of the beloved 1950s sitcom star drew worldwide attention.

Dave Poulin tells The Associated Press on Tuesday that he admits the life-size bronze statue placed in a village of Celoron park in 2009 wasn't his best work. He plans to create a new statue.

Poulin says he has received hundreds of angry emails and phone messages, including some death threats, since a Facebook campaign was recently launched to replace the statue with a face that bears little resemblance to the I Love Lucy star.

Poulin sent a letter Monday evening to several media outlets saying he takes full responsibility for what has become known as "Scary Lucy."