Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins discussed his ongoing friendship with Marilyn Manson during an appearance on the New York Times’ Popcast, defending the relationship despite sexual assault and abuse accusations against Manson from multiple women.
Corgan stated that as a Christian, he believes in supporting friends while maintaining critical perspectives. He noted that prosecutors investigated the case for several years before determining not to pursue criminal charges. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced in January 2025 that his office would not bring charges against Manson, citing statute of limitations issues on domestic violence claims and insufficient evidence to prove sexual assault charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Hochman’s statement acknowledged the courage of the women who reported allegations and recognized the broader impact of their advocacy on awareness of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has faced accusations from actress Evan Rachel Wood, actress Esmé Bianco, model Ashley Morgan Smithline, and former assistant Ashley Walters. Wood publicly named Manson as her abuser in 2021. Manson’s defamation lawsuit against Wood was dropped in 2024, with the two reaching a settlement in which he agreed to cover her legal fees. Bianco settled her civil case in 2023, while Smithline’s case was dismissed after she recanted her claims. Walters’ sexual abuse lawsuit has been reopened for a second time.
Corgar emphasized that he did not want external parties determining his personal associations and cited a nearly 30-year relationship with Manson. He also noted family connections through Manson’s wife, whose twin sister is married to Smashing Pumpkins guitarist James Iha. Corgar indicated he had reviewed details about the case that informed his position, while acknowledging that if Manson or anyone accused of such conduct were guilty, they should face imprisonment.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI