Billy Corgan Defends Friendship With Marilyn Manson Amid Past Abuse Lawsuits

Billy Corgan says he continues to stand by Marilyn Manson despite past sexual misconduct and domestic violence lawsuits filed against Manson over the years. Speaking on the New York Times 'Popcast' podcast, the Smashing Pumpkins frontman explained that he personally did not feel Manson was guilty of the charges. Corgan noted that his friendship with Manson goes back nearly 30 years and that Manson's wife, Lindsay Usich, is the twin sister of Smashing Pumpkins guitarist James Iha's wife, making Manson essentially part of their family.

Background

Corgan also pointed out that the Los Angeles County District Attorney decided not to prosecute Manson over sexual assault and domestic violence allegations in 2025. The Los Angeles District Attorney's office had previously declined to prosecute sexual assault cases against Manson in 2018 because the statute of limitations had expired. Meanwhile, multiple women have made serious allegations against Manson over the years, starting prominently in 2021 when actress Evan Rachel Wood accused him of abuse, followed by a federal lawsuit from 'Game of Thrones' actress Esmé Blanco.

Context

Public figures often face intense scrutiny over their personal associations when friends or colleagues are hit with severe legal accusations. While supporters like Corgan point to personal trust and decisions by prosecutors not to file charges, critics and accusers highlight the broader pattern of multiple claims made by various women over a long period.