Jaime Bennington, the son of the late Chester Bennington, the iconic lead singer of Linkin Park, has publicly criticized the band’s decision to appoint Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist. Armstrong, co-founder of the rock band Dead Sara, made her debut with Linkin Park during a live performance on September 5, performing alongside new drummer Colin Brittain. This performance was part of the much-anticipated announcement of the band’s upcoming album, “From Zero,” and the supporting tour, marking the group’s first major project since Chester Bennington’s death by suicide in 2017.
Jaime Bennington voiced his disapproval via Instagram on Monday, sharing his frustration in a Story post. He accused Linkin Park co-founder Mike Shinoda of having “quietly erased my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month.” His comments have resonated with a segment of the fanbase, sparking wider controversy and reigniting discussions about how the band is moving forward in the wake of Chester’s passing.
Armstrong’s addition to Linkin Park has also drawn backlash from some fans, who feel the band’s new direction undermines the legacy left by Chester Bennington. In response, Mike Shinoda addressed these concerns during a Discord conversation, where he acknowledged the public’s shock and outrage. Shinoda urged for respectful discourse, emphasizing that the band’s decisions were made with great care but recognizing that not everyone would be pleased with the changes.
On September 6, Armstrong started to address the criticism she had received, including her past support for Danny Masterson, an actor recently convicted of sexual assault. In her statement, Armstrong clarified that she had only attended one early court hearing in support of someone she considered a friend, but later distanced herself from the situation, saying, “I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes.”
Linkin Park’s current lineup, which now includes Armstrong and Brittain, alongside original members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, and Joe Hahn, is set to embark on a six-date arena tour. The tour will take the band to cities like Los Angeles, New York, Hamburg, London, Seoul, and Bogotá. Their new album, “From Zero,” is scheduled for release on November 15, marking a new chapter in the band’s evolving journey.