Marilyn Manson was not part of the line-up for Saturday’s (July 5) epic Back to the Beginning final concert by a reunited Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne. While a murder’s row of hard rock and heavy metal superstars took the stage at Villa Park in Birmingham, England to fête the Prince of Darkness in what was billed as Osbourne’s last-ever show with original Sabbath mates guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward, Manson beamed in with a video message paying homage.
But based on some fan reaction to the gesture, it was not well-received by all. “F–k that guy he’s a rapist piece of s–t,” wrote one fan after video of the tribute was posted. In the clip, Manson (born Brian Warner), 56 — who was accused in lawsuits from four women of sexual assault and domestic abuse — said, “It is a great honor to be here via this video,” according to the NME. “And I’d like to say congratulations, and I love you very much, Ozzy.”
After the video played at the show featuring sets from Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, Pantera, Anthrax and many more, fans weighed in online about the surprise Manson pop-in. “Eurgh Marilyn Manson making an appearance on the sabbath stream. F–k that guy he’s a rapist piece of s–t,” wrote one, with others adding, “Marilyn Manson on the black sabbath stream f–k off” and “disgraceful that he is on this otherwise outstanding Black Sabbath show.”
According to British media reports, some fans at the show booed during the video or turned their backs on Manson’s video. At press time a spokesperson for Manson had not returned Billboard‘s request for comment.
The feeling of some was summed up by another tweet that read, “ew marilyn manson go away.” Manson has long denied the sexual abuse allegations, which have resulted in his being dropped by his label, manager and booking agent, and, most recently, the Oct. 29 One Assassination Under God tour kick-off gig in Brighton, U.K. getting cancelled at the urging of members of Parliament. In January, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that it wouldn’t file criminal charges against Manson in the cases, citing the expiration of the statute of limitations and insufficient evidence in the alleged incidents that prosecutors said happened between 2009 and 2011.
Stories about sexual assault allegations can be traumatizing for survivors of sexual assault. If you or anyone you know needs support, you can reach out to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). The organization provides free, confidential support to sexual assault victims. Call RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE) or visit the anti-sexual violence organization’s website for more information.
