Billy Corgan Says He’s Stood by Marilyn Manson Despite Sex Abuse Claims Because He ‘Didn’t Feel He Was Guilty’: ‘I Don’t Want the World to Tell Me Who My Friends Are’

Billy Corgan defended his friendship with Marilyn Manson after the rocker faced allegations of sexual abuse, stating that he "didn’t feel he was guilty" of the alleged crimes. The Smashing Pumpkins frontman discussed his stance on the matter during an appearance on the New York Times’ “Popcast” podcast. Corgan emphasized that as a Christian, he believed in "standing by your friends," but also acknowledged that it did not mean he was blind to the allegations or wouldn't be critical.

He noted that he did not have all the information and did not feel it was up to him to determine Manson’s guilt. Corgan revealed that he knew personal details not publicly known, which influenced his decision to remain friends with Manson. He also highlighted that Manson’s wife, Lindsay Usich, has family connections to his band, The Smashing Pumpkins, stating that Manson’s wife is a twin and her twin is married to James Iha, another member of the band.

Corgan further explained that the lengthy legal process and the fact that the District Attorney did not pursue charges were factors that shaped his decision. He also acknowledged that the public had no right to dictate his personal relationships, including his friendship with Manson, who has a history of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse allegations from over a dozen women.

Despite the allegations, Manson denied the accusations and later sued an accuser for defamation, though that suit was dropped in 2024. However, in 2025, the Los Angeles County District Attorney decided not to pursue charges against Manson due to insufficient evidence and the statute of limitations.