Marilyn Manson–Columbine High School massacre controversy Manson's controversial behavior, such as committing a sexual act with another male live on stage. In response, Manson claimed that this was not planned and was entertaining at the time. O'Reilly also challenged Manson by stating that never before in the United States had there been more corrupting influences on the nation's youth at one time, and that while Manson claims that his messages are not meant to be taken a certain way, young people can misinterpret his lyrics. Two years after Columbine, Manson was expected to perform in Denver, Colorado at the Ozzfest at Mile High Stadium. As a
Marilyn Manson–Columbine High School massacre controversy result, protesters gathered to prevent Manson from performing. One speaker said that Marilyn Manson's music promoted what he called Columbine-like behavior, such as hate, violence, death, suicide, and drug use. The protesters were largely made up of the Citizens for Peace and Respect, an organization that consisted of locals, churches, and Columbine families. The blame that was placed on Marilyn Manson quickly circulated. The controversy was cited in news outlets around the world. While many protested Manson's appearance in Denver, others supported Manson. One spokesman for a Columbine victim's family told reporters that Manson shouldn't be expected to instill values