Billy Corgan has addressed his decision to maintain a public friendship with Marilyn Manson, citing a combination of personal religious conviction and familial ties that bridge the two musicians’ inner circles.
In an appearance on the New York Times podcast ‘Popcast’, the Smashing Pumpkins frontman explained that he chose to stand by Manson despite the numerous sexual abuse allegations brought against the singer since 2021. Corgan attributed his stance to his Christian faith and a rejection of what he termed “witch mob” culture, stating he personally did not believe Manson was guilty of the claims.
The Family Connection
Corgan’s loyalty to Manson is reinforced by a specific family link between the Smashing Pumpkins and Manson’s household. Manson’s wife, Lindsay Usich, is the identical twin sister of Ashley Usich-Iha, who is married to Smashing Pumpkins guitarist James Iha.
During the interview, Corgan characterized the relationship as a family matter, suggesting that his perspective is informed by “inside baseball” knowledge and “personal things behind the scenes” that the general public is not privy to. Corgan expressed a desire to resist external pressure regarding his social circle, telling host Jon Caramanica, “I don’t want the world to tell me who my friends are.”
Legal Status and Upcoming Trials
Corgan’s defense of Manson also pointed toward the lack of criminal prosecution. In January 2025, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office announced it would not pursue criminal charges against Manson following a multi-year investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. At the time, prosecutors noted there was insufficient evidence to support a filing, and some allegations fell outside the statute of limitations.
While Manson has avoided criminal charges, his legal battles are far from over. Although he has reached out-of-court settlements with several accusers—including actress Esmé Bianco and an anonymous “Jane Doe”—one significant civil case is moving toward a public showdown.
A sexual assault lawsuit filed by Manson’s former assistant, Ashley Walters, is currently scheduled for a jury trial on November 15, 2027. Walters’ case was previously dismissed but was revived under California’s AB 250 law, which extended the window for survivors of sexual assault to file civil claims.
