Evan Rachel Wood Details Her Abusive Relationship With Marilyn Manson in Trailer for HBO Doc PHOENIX RISING

HBO has released a new trailer for the two-part documentary Phoenix Rising, which follows actress Evan Rachel Wood (True Blood, Westworld) as she explains her abuse by Marilyn Manson and connects with other women who have come forward with stories against the singer.

HBO’s official synopsis for the doc reads:

“The documentary follows actress and activist Evan Rachel Wood as she takes her experience as a survivor of domestic violence to pursue justice, heal generational wounds and reclaim her story. Almost a decade after escaping a dangerous relationship, Wood co-authors and successfully lobbies for passage of The Phoenix Act, legislation that extends the statute of limitations for domestic violence cases in California. Wood courageously uses her own experience to bring visibility to the issue; ultimately, in solidarity with fellow survivors.”

Variety reports that Phoenix Rising made headlines after its Sundance premiere due to Wood’s revelation in the documentary that she was “essentially raped on-camera” while filming the 2007 music video for Marilyn Manson’s “Heart-Shaped Glasses.” The video features Wood having sex with Manson while fake blood rains down on them. Wood was 19 years old when she filmed the music video and alleges that she was fed absinthe on set to the point that she was barely conscious to object when Manson had sex with her on camera. Manson has denied the allegation.

Wood says in the documentary:

“It’s nothing like I thought it was going to be. We’re doing things that were not what was pitched to me. We had discussed a simulated sex scene, but once the cameras were rolling, he started penetrating me for real. I had never agreed to that. … It was complete chaos. I did not feel safe. No one was looking after me.”

HBO will premiere Phoenix Rising on back-to-back nights. Part 1, “Phoenix Rising: Don’t Fall,” debuts Tuesday, March 15th at 9 p.m. ET. Part 2, “Phoenix Rising: Stand Up,” debuts Wednesday, March 16th at the same time. Both episodes will be available to stream on HBO Max beginning Tuesday, March 15.

This looks like it’s going to be a tough watch, especially for other survivors of sexual or physical abuse, but it also looks important and empowering. Check out the trailer below, and let us know what you think.