Marilyn Manson Wembley Show Faces Renewed Cancellation Calls

More than a dozen charities have added their names to calls for Marilyn Manson's scheduled 2027 performance at Wembley Stadium to be cancelled. The musician, whose real name is Brian Hugh Warner, is set to appear as a supporting act for Slipknot. The renewed appeal comes from Brent Councillor Anton Georgiou, who is urging both Wembley Stadium and Brent Council to oppose the event.

Councillor Georgiou, who is also the leader of the Liberal Democrats in Brent, has raised "serious concerns" about the decision to provide the musician with a platform. These concerns are amplified by ongoing allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse made by multiple women. These include former personal assistant Ashley Walters, Westworld actor Evan Rachel Wood, and Game of Thrones actor Esmé Bianco, who have brought forward claims through civil lawsuits in the US and public statements.

Upcoming Trial and Legal History

The 57-year-old artist faces a jury trial next year concerning sexual assault allegations brought by Ms Walters. Mr Warner has consistently denied any wrongdoing, stating the claims are false. Councillor Georgiou noted that previous lawsuits brought by four women were dismissed due to exceeding the statute of limitations, not on their merits. However, a US judge has reinstated a lawsuit against Mr Warner under a new law, leading to his court appearance scheduled for November 2027.

In a letter to Wembley Stadium, Councillor Georgiou stated, "A performer that continues to be accused of such serious crimes should not play at our national stadium until they are cleared of all charges." He added that a conviction would reflect extremely badly on the stadium and risk reputational damage. He questioned why music stars should be treated differently from individuals in other professions who would be suspended pending investigation.

Charity Support and Campaign Focus

Thirteen domestic abuse and sexual abuse charities have now signed the new letter to Wembley Stadium. Among the signatories are Chris Green OBE and Björn Suttka, founders of Male Allies Challenging Sexism (MACS), who have been running the ‘No Abusers on Stage’ campaign. They stated that public endorsements of artists facing such allegations send a harmful message. Other supporting organisations include Snap Survivors Network, The Model Alliance, and Stand With Survivors.

Venue and Council Responses

Wembley Stadium has reiterated its previous stance, stating that event bookings are agreed in advance and the selection of support acts is at the promoter's discretion. The stadium confirmed it has contacted Councillor Georgiou to arrange a meeting to discuss his concerns. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the safety and wellbeing of their guests, colleagues, and the wider community.

A spokesperson for Brent Council stated that the council has no direct control over commercial bookings at Wembley Stadium. However, the council affirmed its commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. The council encouraged the headline act and event organisers to "reflect carefully on the feedback from Brent residents and survivors of violence and abuse" when making decisions about performers.

The council added that its commitment to standing up for women and girls is unwavering and will continue to be demonstrated through its actions.