Actress Evan Rachel Wood has detailed the profound impact of alleged abuse she experienced during her relationship with Marilyn Manson, describing a period of self-blame and the challenges of speaking out.

Initial Accusations and Manson's Response

Wood initially came forward with accusations of sexual assault and emotional abuse in 2021, relating to their relationship between 2006 and 2010. However, she was unable to pursue criminal charges at the time.

Marilyn Manson, whose legal name is Brian Hugh Warner, vehemently denied the allegations and filed a lawsuit against Wood, accusing her of a deliberate campaign to damage his reputation.

Lawsuit Dropped and Legal Fees Paid

In 2024, Manson dropped the lawsuit and agreed to cover Wood’s $327,000 legal expenses following a court order. This development followed a failed attempt at a settlement where Manson allegedly offered a partial payment of Wood’s fees in exchange for a joint statement and confidentiality, which Wood declined.

Wood's Account of the Alleged Abuse

Wood described how Manson initially made her feel valued before allegedly exploiting her vulnerabilities and loneliness. She characterized the environment surrounding Manson as cult-like, making it difficult to leave the relationship and frightening to speak out.

She emphasized the common feeling among survivors of believing they were alone and internalizing blame, drawing parallels to the challenges faced in cases like the Epstein Files.

Additional Allegations and Reopened Case

Following the release of Wood’s HBO documentary, Phoenix Rising: Don't Fall, more than a dozen women, including Esme Bianco and Ashley Walters, came forward with similar allegations against Manson.

A previously dismissed sexual assault case against Manson was reopened in January under a new law allowing for the prosecution of older sexual assault claims. This case, filed by former assistant Ashley Walters, alleges sexual assault and disturbing statements.

Despite these developments, Manson’s lawyer maintains his client’s innocence and anticipates the lawsuit will ultimately fail.