photo_cameraCopenhell
Festivals
Festival Faces Backlash Over Marilyn Manson Booking
Denmark`s Copenhell festival, organised by Live Nation, is facing criticism following its decision to book Marilyn Manson for its 2027 edition, reigniting debate over whether artists facing serious allegations of misconduct should be given a platform at major live music events.
The Copenhagen-based metal festival announced Marilyn Manson on 10 November as part of a new wave of 21 artists for next year`s event, scheduled for 23–26 June at Refshaleøen. The announcement also included Parkway Drive, Primus, Sublime, Kansas and Paradise Lost.
Criticism followed shortly after the announcement. Danish music publication GAFFA reported that the decision had prompted strong reactions, with some commentators describing the booking as unacceptable and questioning the festival`s judgement. Other fans have defended the decision, reflecting divided opinions about separating an artist`s work from allegations concerning their personal conduct.
Festival defends its decision
In a written response to Danish news outlet Presse-fotos.dk, Copenhell defended the booking, pointing to Marilyn Manson`s influence on heavy music and his established Danish audience.
The festival said that Manson had been an important figure in heavy music for three decades and that the band continued to attract a substantial following in Denmark.
Copenhell also acknowledged the controversy surrounding the musician and said it understood why the announcement had prompted criticism.
Addressing concerns about festival safety, the organisers said they did not believe the performance would present an increased security risk, citing the band`s previous festival and concert appearances.
The festival maintained that presenting an artist`s music does not necessarily imply support for the artist`s behaviour or public statements. It also stressed that audiences are not expected to agree with every booking on the programme.
Background to the allegations
Marilyn Manson, whose legal name is Brian Warner, has faced allegations of sexual assault, domestic violence and psychological abuse from several women, including actress Evan Rachel Wood. Manson has denied the allegations.
In January 2025, the Los Angeles County District Attorney`s Office announced that it would not pursue criminal charges following a four-year investigation. Prosecutors said the domestic violence allegations were outside the statute of limitations, while the evidence was insufficient to prove sexual assault charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
The decision not to prosecute did not constitute a judicial determination of the truth or falsity of the allegations.
Return to the Danish festival circuit
Marilyn Manson previously performed at Copenhell in 2012, and his most recent Danish concert took place in Aarhus in 2018.
A planned concert at Copenhagen`s K.B. Hallen in February 2025, promoted by Live Nation, sold out but was subsequently cancelled because of illness.
The 2027 appearance will therefore mark the musician`s first Danish performance in nine years, provided the show goes ahead as scheduled.
The controversy places additional attention on Live Nation as the company behind Copenhell, highlighting the reputational considerations facing major festival organisers when booking artists involved in public controversies.
Copenhell has maintained that it intends to proceed with the booking. The festival`s 2027 programme also includes Faith No More, Judas Priest and D-A-D.