D’arcy Wretzky, the original bassist for Smashing Pumpkins, has accused frontman Billy Corgan of manipulation and rescinding an offer to be part of the band’s upcoming classic-era reunion.

Last month, frontman Billy Corgan was pictured in the studio with original guitarist and drummer James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlin, and are expected to announce a reunion album and tour this week.

After Wretsky revealed that she would play no part in the reunion, Corgan downplayed Wretsky’s past role and musical contributions to the band.

Wretzky, bassist from 1988–1999, has now claimed in a new interview that Corgan originally sent her a contract offer to be part of the expected reunion, before allegedly later saying that it “wasn’t a real offer”. 

She also claimed that Corgan told her via text message that “there was never any decision to shut you out, or make you not welcome” and that he thought “we can find the right way to have you involved”.

However, according to Wretzky, Corgan also said that fellow original members Jimmy Chamberlin and James Iha were “with him” on the decision to reunite without her. “I am totally disgusted with James,” Wretzky said about this. “He should be ashamed of himself.”

Asked why Corgan might not want her as part of the upcoming reunion, Wretzky said: “that is a whole other can of worms and a big, ugly one”.

Billy Corgan

On Facebook, Wretzky also reportedly told fans that “people might be getting sick and tired of being manipulated by Billy.” 

She added: “Billy’s ship … which keeps sinking every time he tries pulls this ship. I abandoned it in 1999 cause I knew it was sinking. He was beyond helping. His ego & insecurities spun out of control and I could no longer reel him in, which had been a very large part of my role for many years, but it was hopeless.”

NME has approached Corgan’s press representative for a response.

At the weekend, the Smashing Pumpkins launched an online countdown, with an announcement of their reunion expected later this week.

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