Evan Rachel Wood Accuses Marilyn Manson of Physical, Sexual Abuse
Actor and singer Evan Rachel Wood has accused Marilyn Manson of sexual and physical abuse and manipulation, The New York Times reports.
The 33-year old "Westworld" star had spoken with Rolling Stone in 2016 about having endured "physical, psychological, [and] sexual" abuse, as well as having been raped by "a significant other," but without specifically naming her abuser until now. Wood posted on Instagram:
"The name of my abuser is Brian Warner, also known to the world as Marilyn Manson. He started grooming me when I was a teenager and horrifically abused me for years. I was brainwashed and manipulated into submission. I am done living in fear of retaliation, slander, or blackmail. I am here to expose this dangerous man and call out the many industries that have enabled him, before he ruins any more lives. I stand with the many victims who will no longer be silent."
In 2007, Wood and Manson announced their relationship — she was 19 and he was 38. Manson proposed to Wood onstage in 2010, and they were engaged for a short time before splitting later that year.
Pitchfork notes that, in 2018, Wood testified before the House Judiciary Subcommittee supporting the Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights. The next year, she testified for the Phoenix Act which would, as Pitchfork states, "extend the statute of limitations for crimes involving domestic violence." The Act was passed in 2019.
Wood's is one of many accusations leveled at Manson, according to NPR. Sarah McNeilly, a model who had also been in a relationship with Manson, posted to Instagram, "I have been afraid to bring any spotlight upon myself as to avoid winding up in his crosshairs again. As a result of the way he treated me, I suffered from mental health issues and PTSD that have affected my personal and professional relationships, self-worth and personal goals."
In 2018, a case was brought against Manson for sexual assault, which was ultimately declined by the Los Angeles District Attorney due to "absence of corroboration."