Major Controversies Surrounding Kenneth Anger: A Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 28, 2025

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Kenneth Anger.

Kenneth Anger was an influential American experimental filmmaker known for his short films, particularly the "Magick Lantern Cycle." His work blends surrealism, homoeroticism, and occult themes, often incorporating elements of erotica, documentary, and psychodrama. As one of America's first openly gay filmmakers, Anger's films challenged social norms and explored sexuality before its widespread acceptance. His fascination with Aleister Crowley and Thelema deeply influenced his cinematic style and subject matter.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

1935: Claims Role in Film

In 1935, according to Anger's claims, he allegedly played the Changeling Prince in "A Midsummer Night's Dream," though this is disputed.

1961: Return to the U.S. and Work on Scorpio Rising

In 1961, Kenneth Anger returned to the U.S. and began working on Scorpio Rising, a film exploring the biker subculture with controversial visuals and a soundtrack of popular 1960s songs.

1965: Kustom Kar Kommandos and Hollywood Babylon

In 1965, Anger released "Kustom Kar Kommandos" and the gossip book "Hollywood Babylon". The latter became infamous for its sensational claims.

1965: Pirated version of Hollywood Babylon released in the U.S.

In 1965, a pirated and incomplete version of Kenneth Anger's book, Hollywood Babylon, was printed in the U.S. The book, co-written with Elliott Stein, was filled with celebrity gossip and scandalous stories.

1967: Dispute with Beausoleil and Allegations of Stolen Footage

In 1967, Kenneth Anger accused Bobby Beausoleil of stealing footage from Lucifer Rising, leading to a falling out. Beausoleil denied the theft and later became involved with Charles Manson and the Manson Family.

1974: Official U.S. publication of Hollywood Babylon

In 1974, the official American version of Kenneth Anger's Hollywood Babylon was published. Following its release, Gloria Swanson filed a lawsuit against Anger, to which he responded by sending a sugar-filled coffin.

1979: Replacement of Page's music on Lucifer Rising

In 1979, Jimmy Page's music was removed from Lucifer Rising and replaced with music written and recorded by Bobby Beausoleil. This was due to a falling out with Page and his partner, Charlotte.

1980: Paint Thrown on Warhol's Door

In 1980, Kenneth Anger threw paint on the front door of a house Andy Warhol had recently moved out of, which was a reaction to Warhol's success in the art world and underground film scene.

1984: Incident on Coca Crystal's Television Show

In 1984, Kenneth Anger was invited to appear on Coca Crystal's television show. He allegedly attacked talent coordinator Maureen Ivice after his demand to have his taxi fare paid was refused.

1995: Publication of Unofficial Biography

In 1995, Bill Landis, wrote an unofficial biography of Kenneth Anger, which Anger condemned.

2015: Hollywood Babylon III withheld due to Tom Cruise section

In 2015, Kenneth Anger finished writing Hollywood Babylon III but withheld it from publication, citing concerns about potential legal action from Tom Cruise and the Church of Scientology due to a critical section about them.