Marilyn Manson's UK Tour Opener in Brighton Canceled Amidst Protests
This post discusses the reasons behind the cancellation, the public and political involvement, and the ongoing debate surrounding artistic freedom versus accountability.

Brighton Concert Cancelled: Marilyn Manson’s UK Tour Faces Backlash
Marilyn Manson’s eagerly awaited UK tour, scheduled to begin in October and November 2025, has encountered a major setback with the cancellation of the opening show in Brighton. Originally set for October 29 at the Brighton Centre, the concert was called off following sustained public protests and political pressure.
Background of the Tour Cancellation
- Tour dates announced for various UK cities, with Brighton as the opening night.
- Historic allegations of sexual misconduct against Brian Warner, known professionally as Marilyn Manson.
- Previous US prosecutors declined charges citing statute limitations and insufficient evidence.
Activism Driving the Decision
- Online campaign “No Stage for Abusers” mobilized fans and advocacy groups to demand cancellation.
- Green Party MP Siân Berry led an open letter signed by community and student organizations.
- Concerns cited about community well-being and potential re-traumatization of survivors.
Political Intervention
- Brighton & Hove City Council faced direct appeals from local representatives.
- Statements from MP Berry highlighted the ethical responsibility of public venues.
- Councillors weighed the potential impact on the city’s reputation and safety.
Public Reaction and Debate
- Supporters of cancellation viewed it as a stand for accountability in the #MeToo era.
- Opponents criticized the move as censorship without formal legal findings.
- Discussion on social media polarized between artistic freedom and moral responsibility.
Continued Tour Dates Under Scrutiny
- Remaining UK shows remain scheduled but face similar campaigns.
- Venue operators in Leeds, Manchester, and Glasgow are monitoring local sentiment.
- Advocacy groups plan to deliver open letters to each hosting council.
Implications for the Music Industry
- Sets a precedent for political and public influence over concert programming.
- Raises questions about liability and reputational risk for venues and promoters.
- Encourages artists’ teams to assess potential backlash before scheduling shows.
What Fans Need to Know
- Tickets for the Brighton show will be refunded at point of purchase.
- Information on rescheduled dates or venue changes will be posted on official channels.
- Fans seeking further details should consult venue websites and ticket providers.
Conclusion
The Brighton cancellation of Marilyn Manson’s opening UK concert underscores a growing trend of activism intersecting with live entertainment. As the debate over accountability and artistic expression continues, future tour dates will likely face intensified scrutiny from both political leaders and advocacy groups.