Chester Bennington’s son expresses outrage over Linkin Park 'reunion'

The internet has been abuzz ever since alt-rock band Linkin Park announced their new singer Emily Armstrong, after a seven-year hiatus following the death of their previous singer, Chester Bennington.

Most fans have expressed their admiration and support for the band and their willingness to move forward. Others have criticized the band's choice of their new vocalist, citing reasons such as her controversial past and ties to Scientology.

In a surprising turn of events, the late singer's son Jamie Bennington has come forward to criticize the band’s choice, calling the move an attempt by the band to tarnish his late father’s legacy.

Screenshot of Jamie Bennington’s now-deleted Instagram story expressing his frustration with Linkin Park’s new vocalist choicethepicturepiecesarchive/Instagram

In a now deleted story posted on his Instagram, Jamie stated that co-founder Mike Shinoda had, “quietly erased my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month.” He wrote several lengthy paragraphs that highlighted Armstrong’s past, referring to her past ties with the Church of Scientology and her former support of That '70s Show star Danny Masterson, who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2023.

Jaime further stated that Linkin Park has “failed to address the concerns of their diverse fan base” and that the music group’s recent actions “are not something people should acclimate to.” He added that the band had 'betrayed the trust of fans who expected the band 'to be the bigger, better person, to be the change. Because you promised us that was your intention.” He concluded, “Now, you're just out of touch and tone-deaf."

Screenshot of Jamie Bennington’s now-deleted Instagram story expressing his frustration with Linkin Park’s new vocalist choice.thepicturepiecesarchive/Instagram

In response to the controversy, Armstrong addressed the issue in an Instagram story, aiming to 'clear the air' regarding her past. “I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer. Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have,” she wrote, adding that she hasn’t connected with Masterson since. “To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize deeply with the victims of these crimes.”