Manson Drops Lawsuit Against Wood

After two years of contentious legal drama, Marilyn Manson—real name Brian Warner—has chosen to end his defamation lawsuit against actor Evan Rachel Wood. The case, which began in March 2022, saw Manson seeking damages over Wood’s claims of abuse during their relationship.

As part of the agreement, Manson will pay Wood approximately $327,000 in legal fees, a sum that underscores the fallout from the case.

The allegations

In 2021, Wood publicly accused Manson of sexual assault, coercion, and emotional abuse. She also alleged grooming, claiming the behaviour began when she was a teenager. Her revelations prompted several other women to come forward with similar allegations, creating a wave of scrutiny around Manson’s personal and professional life.

Manson’s response

Manson initially denied the accusations, calling them “distortions of reality” and filed his lawsuit against Wood, alleging defamation and emotional distress. However, his legal efforts hit major roadblocks last year when a judge dismissed parts of his claims and ordered him to cover significant attorney fees.

A representative for Wood commented:

“Manson’s lawsuit was nothing more than an attempt to intimidate Evan Rachel Wood and undermine her credibility. His decision to abandon the case and pay her legal costs confirms the baselessness of his claims.”

What’s next?

Court filings obtained this week confirm that Manson has formally dropped the case, ending the legal battle. However, the controversy surrounding the abuse allegations is far from over. Manson continues to face criticism from former collaborators and fans alike.

Broader implications

The case has reignited conversations about accountability within the entertainment industry. Wood’s decision to speak out has been praised as a step toward empowering survivors of abuse, while the public reaction to Manson’s case reflects shifting attitudes toward holding high-profile figures responsible for their actions.