Marilyn Manson responds to abuse allegations; U.S. record label severs ties
Following the allegations of abuse against Marilyn Manson, the musician has responded that his "intimate relationships have always been entirely consensual with like-minded partners".
Marilyn Manson has responded to the numerous abuse allegations against him, calling the accusations "horrible distortions of reality".
Following the February 1 statements alleging sexual, physical and psychological abuse posted on social media – led by Evan Rachel Wood – the musician (real name Brian Warner) has responded by stating that his "intimate relationships have always been entirely consensual with like-minded partners".
Read Manson's full statement: "Obviously, my art and my life have long been magnets for controversy, but these recent claims about me are horrible distortions of reality. My intimate relationships have always been entirely consensual with like-minded partners. Regardless of how – and why – others are now choosing to misrepresent the past, that is the truth."
Yesterday, the 52-year-old was dropped by his U.S. record label Loma Vista in the wake of these allegations, with the company stating: "In light of today’s disturbing allegations by Evan Rachel Wood and other women naming Marilyn Manson as their abuser, Loma Vista will cease to further promote his current album effective immediately Due to these concerning developments, we have also decided not work with Marilyn Manson on any future projects."
Evan Rachel Wood took to Instagram yesterday to state that Manson "started grooming me when I was a teenager and horrifically abused me for years", adding that she was "brainwashed and manipulated into submission".
"I am done living in fear of retaliation, slander, or blackmail," she said. "I am here to expose this dangerous man and call out the many industries that have enabled him, before he ruins any more lives. I stand with the many victims who will no longer be silent."
As well as being dropped by Loma Vista, U.S. TV network Starz announced that Manson's upcoming cameo in American Gods would be removed from the show.
"Due to the allegations made against Marilyn Manson, we have decided to remove his performance from the remaining episode he is in, scheduled to air later this season," they said. "Starz stands unequivocally with all victims and survivors of abuse."