Marilyn Manson’s upcoming Halloween show in Brighton, UK has officially been cancelled amid growing public and political backlash tied to multiple s*xual assault allegations against the controversial musician.
The cancellation follows recent efforts by Members of Parliament and community organizations to prevent Manson from performing in the UK as part of his One Assassination Under God tour.
Political Pushback Sparks Public Debate
The controversy began when Millie Earl, council leader for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), called for the cancellation of Manson’s planned Dorset performance, stating:
“Calling off the concert would reinforce the message that violence against women and girls isn’t something that’s acceptable in our community.”
This call was soon echoed by MP Siân Berry, who pushed for Manson’s Brighton gig to be called off as well:
“The concert would contradict the city’s well-renowned values.”
Concert Axed, Ticketmaster Confirms Refunds
On Saturday, June 28th, Ticketmaster began notifying ticket holders that Manson’s Brighton show had been cancelled and that refunds would be issued, according to a report from The Argus.
Activist organization No Stage for Abusers is believed to have also played a significant role in the outcome. The group had publicly called on both the venue and Brighton & Hove City Council to prevent Manson from performing.
Open Letter Raises Ethical and Community Concerns
An open letter sent to Council Leader Bella Sankey, co-signed by the University of Sussex Students’ Union and multiple advocacy groups, added fuel to the fire:
“Many survivors in Brighton and Hove, and organisations supporting them, will have serious concerns about this booking and its wider impact on other people visiting the city centre, local residents and the wider community.”
The letter stressed that while freedom of expression is important, it must be balanced with the council’s duty to maintain community cohesion and uphold its equalities obligations:
“There is an obvious risk to community cohesion and the council has separate equalities obligations to foster good relations between people who share protected characteristics and people who do not share them.”
“The council has a responsibility to take action where there are risks of discrimination, harassment and victimization,” the letter added, noting concern over the “message sent out by providing a platform for this individual, at our city’s biggest publicly owned venue.”
Legal Context and Ongoing Controversy
While several of Manson’s accusers have settled lawsuits in recent years, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced earlier this year that no charges would be filed in at least one case.
As District Attorney Nathan Hochman explained:
“We have determined that allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations, and we cannot prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Despite the legal outcomes, public pressure and the weight of community ethics have played a decisive role in the cancellation of the Brighton performance. Whether further dates on Manson’s tour will face similar action remains to be seen.
