Chester Bennington’s son criticises Linkin Park over new singer

Linkin Park is facing backlash following their decision to replace the late Chester Bennington with a new vocalist.

THE NEW LINKIN PARK CONTROVERSY

Jaime Bennington, Chester’s son, has publicly criticised the band for bringing in Emily Armstrong, co-founder of the band Dead Sara, as their new frontwoman.

He expressed his disappointment over the move, accusing the band of erasing his father’s legacy, according to Variety.

Armstrong made her debut on 5 September alongside Linkin Park’s new drummer, Colin Brittain.

The band’s performance marked the first since Chester’s tragic death in 2017.

LINKIN PARK AND CHESTER’S MEMORY

They also announced a new album titled From Zero, set to release on 15 November, and a supporting tour.

However, the news has not been met with universal approval.

Many fans, including Jaime Bennington, feel that Armstrong’s appointment dishonours Chester’s memory, according to BBC.

Jaime took to Instagram to share his thoughts, posting in a Story.

CHESTER’S SON WEIGHS IN ON NEW LINKIN PARK

He stated that Mike Shinoda, the band’s co-founder, had “quietly erased my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month.”

In frustration, he said that Linkin Park “failed to address the concerns of their diverse fan base.”

He added that the band had “betrayed the trust” of fans who had looked up to them to be better.

NEW LEAD FOR LINKIN PARK AND HER CONTROVERSY

He also criticised Armstrong’s ties to the Church of Scientology and her support for actor Danny Masterson, according to News Week.

Masterson was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for raping two women in 2023.

Jaime highlighted Armstrong’s involvement, pointing to her previous defence of Masterson.

Cedric Bixler-Zavala, the singer of The Mars Volta, also weighed in.

COURT APPEARANCES

He, alongside his wife, Chrissie Carnell-Bixler, had accused Masterson of sexual assault.

Bixler-Zavala had already criticised Armstrong earlier this year, questioning whether Dead Sara’s fans were aware of her ties to Masterson.

“Do your fans know about your friend Danny Masterson? Your rapist friend,” he wrote.

ARMSTRONG RESPONDS

Armstrong, in response to the backlash, stated on 6 September.

“I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance. I went to one early hearing as an observer.

Soon after, I realised I shouldn’t have,” she said. Armstrong was quick to distance herself from the convicted actor.

“To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women.

I empathise with the victims of these crimes,” she added.

MIKE TALKS TO THE FANS

Mike Shinoda addressed the fan outrage during a conversation on Discord.

He acknowledged the shock and anger but urged for respectful discussions.

He understands that replacing Chester Bennington is an emotional topic for many.

Despite the controversy, Linkin Park is pushing ahead with their new direction.

LINKIN PARK’S NEW TOUR

The band, now made up of Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, Emily Armstrong, and Colin Brittain, is preparing for a six-date arena tour.

The tour will visit major cities including Los Angeles, New York, London, Seoul, and Bogota.

This move marks a significant moment for Linkin Park, but for many fans, Chester Bennington’s absence remains palpable.

REGAINING THE TRUST OF FANS

Jaime’s words reflect the sentiments of those who feel the band’s new direction is a betrayal.

“You promised us that was your intention,” Jaime wrote. “Now you’re just senile and tone-deaf.”

Whether the band will regain the trust of fans remains to be seen. But for now, the storm around Armstrong’s appointment continues to brew.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON JAIME BENNINGTON’S CRITICISM OF THE BAND?

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