GENDER BENDER MANSON READY FOR TRIAL

Marilyn Manson

Gender Bender Marilyn Manson has reportedly asked his ex-wife Dita Von Teese and fellow rock star Trent Reznor to testify at his upcoming court battle with a former bandmate. Manson is set for a legal showdown with keyboardist Stephen Bier, also known by his stage name of Madonna Wayne Gacy, after the musician filed a breach of contract lawsuit against the gothic drag queen in 2007. Bier accuses Manson of using money from their former band partnership to buy personal goods, including gifts for burlesque star Von Teese. Manson countersued Bier alleging he breached a contract by not fully participating in the making of master recordings, performing in concert, and helping to sell band merchandise. Manson maintains that the band’s partnership was dissolved in 1996, but Bier - who left the group in 2007 - insists it still exists and claims he is entitled to a share in the very high revenues. The case is set to go to trial on February 2nd and Manson’s legal eagles are said to have asked Von Teese and Nine Inch Nails frontman Reznor to take the stand on the rocker’s behalf, according to E! Online. Reznor is expected to discuss his work on Manson’s debut album, Portrait of an American Family, while Von Teese will answer questions about the pair’s former relationship.