Brent Councillor Urges Wembley to Cancel Marilyn Manson Gig

Wembley Stadium is facing calls to cancel a performance by musician Marilyn Manson, who is scheduled to support Slipknot on July 3, 2027. The request comes from Brent councillor Anton Georgiou, who has urged the venue to review the booking in light of serious allegations of sexual assault and psychological abuse made against the artist.

Councillor's Call for Accountability

Councillor Georgiou, who leads the Liberal Democrat Group at Brent Council, stated that the council's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls requires addressing such bookings. He highlighted that multiple women, including actors Evan Rachel Wood and Esmé Bianco, and former personal assistant Ashley Walters, have made allegations against Marilyn Manson, whose real name is Brian Hugh Warner. While Manson denies the claims, he faces a criminal trial next year concerning allegations made by Ms Walters. The councillor expressed disappointment that the council had not spoken out publicly and asked Wembley Stadium to explain the consideration given to the allegations before confirming the booking, and to consider the message it sends to survivors of abuse.

Thousands of Slipknot fans have also indicated they would boycott the show due to Manson's involvement. Councillor Georgiou emphasised that Wembley, as a major institution in Brent, has a responsibility to take these concerns seriously and be open about its decision-making process, framing the issue as one of accountability rather than censorship.

Council and Venue Response

A spokesperson for Brent Council stated that decisions regarding performers at Wembley Stadium are the responsibility of the venue and event organisers, as the council has no direct control over commercial bookings. The council reiterated its commitment to preventing abuse and supporting survivors, encouraging the headline act and organisers to reflect on feedback from residents and survivors. Wembley Stadium confirmed that events are agreed well in advance and that the selection of support acts is at the promoter's and headline artist's discretion. The stadium is liaising with Councillor Georgiou and has commenced discussions with the promoter about the performance, while also affirming its commitment to the safety and wellbeing of guests and staff.

Janaya Walker, Interim Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition, urged the stadium to take a stand, noting that perpetrators of gender-based violence in the public eye are often shielded by industries. She stressed that ending violence against women and girls is a shared responsibility and called on the council, stadium owners, and organisers to consider the messages their decisions convey to both perpetrators and victims.