Marilyn Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, is poised to launch the UK leg of his controversial "One Assassination Under God Tour" at the Brighton Centre on October 29. However, this performance is mired in heated debate, with a local online campaign group urging for its cancellation. The group is appealing to both the Brighton Centre and Brighton and Hove City Council, which owns the venue, to take a stand against hosting Manson, citing the longstanding allegations against him that have sparked widespread concern.

Despite an extensive investigation into these allegations that concluded without charges due to the statute of limitations, Manson remains a polarising figure. California prosecutors determined that the evidence could not support any claims beyond a reasonable doubt, and Manson has consistently denied the accusations, labelling them as "falsehoods." Yet, his past, including admissions made in his 1998 autobiography, "The Long Hard Road Out of Hell," reveals unsettling details about his interactions with women, further complicating his public image.

Stephen Kingston, a campaigner leading the protest, expressed deep concern about the implications of allowing Manson to perform. "Brighton is the first date of his UK tour and it’s a council-owned venue, so we feel the council has a responsibility to take a stand," he stated. Kingston also questioned the message sent by the council’s decision to host Manson, suggesting that even the lack of a conviction does not lessen the impact of the alleged behaviour. The Brighton Centre has defended its position, acknowledging the diverse perspectives surrounding the artist while highlighting their commitment to not endorsing hate.

In light of these tensions, support has emerged from local political figures. Chloë Goldsmith, a Green Party councillor for the Regency ward, articulated the community's frustration. She argued that hosting Manson contradicts the very values upheld by Brighton. Goldsmith is calling for a thorough review of the council’s events policies to prevent similar bookings in the future.

Adding further layers of controversy, Manson recently faced legal issues beyond the sexual assault allegations. In September 2023, he pleaded no contest to simple assault charges after an incident during a concert in 2019, where he was accused of spitting and blowing his nose on a videographer. The court deemed his actions "egregious," resulting in both fines and community service, yet his attorney maintained that this did not equate to guilt regarding the more serious allegations.

As protests loom, the landscape surrounding Manson’s performances continues to evolve. Notably, his concerts have historically attracted significant protest activities, with previous events witnessing clashes between fans and demonstrators. This pattern of unrest illustrates the ongoing conflict between Manson's provocative art and the growing call from activists seeking to challenge the narratives and influence exerted by celebrities in the public arena.

With the Brighton Centre and the council remaining largely silent amidst this mounting pressure, the outcome of this controversy will not only reflect on Manson's career but may also signal a shifting attitude towards how institutions engage with artists accused of serious misconduct.

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Source: Noah Wire Services