Heavy metal group Slipknot have unveiled a new global tour, with American rock musician Marilyn Manson confirmed as an opening act for select performances in London and South America.
The news triggered an immediate wave of criticism on social media, with numerous attendees stating they would boycott tickets over the long-standing sexual abuse allegations against the 57-year-old artist. Thousands of replies to an Instagram post outlining the lineup, which also includes metalcore band Hatebreed, expressed disappointment and frustration.
While some supporters highlighted the significant overlap between the two groups’ fanbases and praised Manson as a suitable supporting act, many vocal critics took to the comments section to declare they would no longer financially support the musician.
Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has consistently denied all accusations leveled against him. In 2021, actress Evan Rachel Wood publicly alleged that he physically abused and manipulated her during their three-year relationship starting in 2007. Several other women subsequently came forward with similar claims via social media.
The singer characterized Wood’s allegations as “horrible distortions of reality,” asserting that his intimate relationships were always consensual. He previously filed a defamation lawsuit against Wood and another accuser, but the case was settled in 2024, resulting in Manson agreeing to cover Wood’s legal fees after a judge dismissed certain parts of his claims.
Last year, Los Angeles prosecutors announced they would not pursue criminal charges following a four-year investigation into domestic abuse and sexual assault allegations involving multiple women. The district attorney’s office cited the statute of limitations for domestic abuse charges and stated there was insufficient evidence to prove sexual assault charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
BBC Newsbeat has contacted representatives for Marilyn Manson and Live Nation UK for comment regarding the tour announcement and the resulting controversy.
Wild that they picked Manson for London dates specifically. I never thought I’d say this, but maybe get a different opener!
Did anyone notice that the LA prosecutors dropped the case due to lack of evidence? Seems like legal vindication to me.
Slipknot fans just want loud music and a good show. Why does every lineup need to be a moral debate these days?
Boycotting these tickets. No amount of metal music justifies ignoring serious allegations of abuse against survivors.