Billy Corgan defends Marilyn Manson amid sexual assault allegations

Billy Corgan defended his decades‑long friendship with Marilyn Manson on Tuesday, saying he does not believe the shock rocker is guilty of the sexual‑assault accusations that have dominated headlines this year. The Smashing Pumpkins frontman told the Hollywood Reporter that “I didn’t feel that he was guilty,” and added he does not want “the world to tell me who my friends are and who I should associate with.” Corgan made the remarks during a sit‑down interview in Los Angeles, weeks after a civil lawsuit filed by former Manson dancer Ashley “Bambi” Woods was dismissed and a criminal investigation in Chicago was closed without charges.

The comments come as Manson faces a wave of allegations from dozens of women who say he abused them over the past two decades. In 2023, several victims filed lawsuits alleging rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse, prompting a criminal probe that ended in 2024 with no indictment. The accusations have led to Manson’s removal from festival line‑ups, the suspension of his record contract and a steep decline in streaming numbers. Corgan’s public defense is notable because the two musicians have been linked for 30 years; Manson’s wife, Evan Rachel Wood, is the twin sister of James Iha, the former Smashing Pumpkins guitarist, making the personal ties even tighter.

Corgan said he “knew personal things behind the scenes that are not in the public sphere,” suggesting he has private knowledge of Manson’s behavior. He did not elaborate on what that knowledge entails. The interview sparked a mixed reaction on social media. Some fans praised Corgan for standing by a longtime friend, while others criticized him for dismissing the victims’ accounts. Fellow musicians, including former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, issued statements urging accountability and warning against “defending the indefensible.” Industry observers note that Corgan’s stance could affect his own reputation and future collaborations.

The fallout is likely to continue. Critics say Corgan’s remarks may pressure his record label and touring partners to reconsider any joint projects with him. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are calling for more thorough investigations into Manson’s alleged crimes, arguing that celebrity friendships should not shield alleged perpetrators. As the legal battles wind down, the debate over loyalty versus accountability remains a flashpoint in the music world.