Marilyn Manson's UK Tour Kicks Off With a Cancellation

Marilyn Manson's European tour faced an early hurdle when his Brighton, England show was called off. The decision came after a mix of online protests and pressure from local politicians. The concert, planned for October 29 at the Brighton Centre, was the first stop on his One Assassination Under God Tour. Fans who bought tickets were told the show was off and that they'd get their money back. This isn't the first time Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has been in the spotlight for controversies. In 2021, multiple women accused him of abuse, including actress Evan Rachel Wood and model Ashley Morgan. Warner has denied all these claims. Earlier this year, Los Angeles prosecutors dropped a case against him, saying the abuse allegations were too old to pursue and the sexual assault claims couldn't be proven. A group called No Stage for Abusers started a campaign to stop Manson's shows. They wanted the Brighton Centre and the local council to cancel his performance. Then, Siân Berry, a member of parliament from the Green Party, wrote a letter to the council leader. She said many survivors and support groups in the area were worried about the show. The letter was signed by other council members, student groups, and organizations supporting survivors. Berry argued that the council should act to prevent discrimination and harassment. After Berry's letter, another council leader, Millie Earl, also spoke up. She asked the venue operator, BH Live, to cancel Manson's show in Bournemouth. Earl said Manson didn't represent the values of their community. She mentioned their work on programs to help men and boys change harmful behaviors. This situation raises questions about how venues and communities should handle performers with serious allegations against them. Should they be given a platform, or should they be canceled to protect potential victims and send a message?