Marilyn Manson’s upcoming Halloween concert in Bournemouth, UK is under scrutiny as local political leadership calls for its cancellation. Set to take place on October 31st at Windsor Hall within the Bournemouth International Centre, the show has sparked backlash from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council leader Millie Earl.
Citing the numerous sexual assault and misconduct allegations brought against Manson in recent years, Earl expressed concern that allowing the controversial performer to take the stage would send the wrong message about the community’s stance on violence against women. “I don’t feel Marilyn Manson reflects the values we have in BCP,” she stated in comments reported by the BBC.
More than a dozen women came forward during the pandemic with disturbing allegations against Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner. Although investigations were launched, no criminal charges were filed—largely due to the age of the claims. The fallout was nonetheless swift: Manson was dropped by his record label, talent agency, and longtime manager in 2021.
Manson has denied the accusations and has reached out-of-court settlements with two of the women. Another lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed, while two civil suits—one from a former personal assistant and another from an alleged survivor dating back to the 1990s—remain active.
In a high-profile move, Manson previously filed a defamation lawsuit against actress and former fiancée Evan Rachel Wood and her associate Ilma Gore, alleging they had manipulated and encouraged other women to come forward with false accusations. Wood publicly named him as her abuser in 2021. However, Manson dropped that suit in late 2023 after facing several legal setbacks.
Despite not having direct control over bookings at the Bournemouth International Centre—operated by BH Live—Earl confirmed that she has written to the organization to express her opposition to Manson’s appearance. “We don’t have any input into the decisions that are made,” she explained, referencing the council’s lease arrangement with BH Live. “So I have asked that BH Live reconsider hosting Marilyn Manson later this year.”
Earl emphasized that allowing the show to proceed would undermine ongoing efforts to challenge harmful behavior and promote respect, especially in light of initiatives like the White Ribbon accreditation scheme.
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