HBO has shared the first trailer for Phoenix Rising, the two-part documentary that revolves around Evan Rachel Wood’s allegations of abuse against Marilyn Manson, and her connection with other women who came forward to share similar stories about the rock star.
“I’m here today to talk about Brian Warner, also known to the world as Marilyn Manson,” the actor says in the new preview, which also sees her family discuss how Warner hid behind his musical persona. Elsewhere, Wood shares her realisation that she wasn’t alone, experiences with a support group, and the ensuing legal fight that resulted in the passage of the Phoenix Act.
Wood initially accused her former partner of years-long abuse in February 2021, posting a statement to social media that read: “The name of my abuser is Brian Warner, also known to the world as Marilyn Manson. He started grooming me when I was a teenager and horrifically abused me for years.”
Four women would also come forward in early February, saying that they experienced violence and harassment, sexual and verbal abuse, and were forced by Manson to take drugs. All four women claimed that they still suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Directed by documentarian Amy Berg, Phoenix Rising premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. New details that emerged at the premiere included Wood’s claim that she was “essentially raped” by Manson during a music video shoot when she was 19.
The first part of Phoenix Rising (subtitled “Don’t Fall”) airs via HBO on March 15, with the second part (“Stand Up”) arriving the following day. The full film will also be made available to stream via HBO Max on March 15.
Watch the Phoenix Rising trailer above.