Marilyn Manson is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his controversial stage persona and image. Born Brian Hugh Warner in 1969, Manson gained fame in the 1990s with his band, Marilyn Manson & the Spooky Kids (later shortened to Marilyn Manson), blending industrial rock, metal, and shock value into his performances. His theatrical, gothic aesthetic and provocative lyrics pushed boundaries, with albums like Antichrist Superstar (1996) and Mechanical Animals (1998) earning critical and commercial success. Manson's image, which often involved dark makeup, flamboyant outfits, and references to taboo subjects, made him a polarizing figure, attracting both a devoted fanbase and public backlash. His music, often exploring themes of alienation, self-doubt, and rebellion, became iconic in the alternative and industrial rock scenes. Despite controversies and legal issues, Manson remained a defining figure in the 1990s and 2000s rock scene.