Seven years ago, the legendary vocalist of Linkin Park Chester Bennington committed suicide. Since his death the band had been on what seemed like a permanent hiatus, that was until earlier this month it was confirmed the band was back with a new lead vocalist, Dead Sara’s Emily Armstrong.
To say the fan outrage was clear would be an understatement. Many felt that bringing the band back was offensive to the legacy left by Chester, whilst others rightly pointed out that Emily Armstrong’s controversial past was reason enough to question Linkin Park’s choice of vocalist.
Scientology and Danny Masterson
Once fans began to look into Emily Armstrong’s past, a couple of important details were discovered. She was seen at a Scientology gala in 2013 and was in support of former actor and convicted rapist Danny Masterson during his court case.
As of today Armstrong is yet to comment on her links to the Church of Scientology. However, she has responded to the claims of her being in support of Danny Masterson.
Taking to Instagram, Armstrong posted her response to the claims in an attempt to clear the air. She talked of being asked to support someone she considered a “friend” and being disgusted once she found out the weight of what what was being alleged.
Here is a photo of her response:
Image credit: Emily Armstrong
Her response is very clear, but it leaves out important details such as Danny Masterson’s name, as well as her connection to the Church of Scientology. This has left many fans confused, and only makes supporting the return of Linkin Park harder.
Another recent development that has made the situation worse is the response from Susan Eubanks, Chester Bennington’s Mother. In an interview with Rolling Stone Eubanks’ stated that she felt “Betrayed, They told me that if they were ever going to do something, they would let me know. They didn’t let me know, and they probably knew that I wasn’t going to be very happy. I’m very upset about it.”
Future plans
Linkin Park are going on a world tour over the next year with Armstrong coming with them as the lead vocalist. It’s an unfortunate turn out for a band that is so well loved.
Their latest single The Emptiness Machine has went down well with some fans, however many others refuse to listen to it because of Emily Armstrong. The single was in promotion of their new album From Zero, releasing in Novemeber.
As someone who loves Linkin Park’s early Nu-Metal music, their return has been disappointing and I can’t in good faith support them whilst Emily Armstrong is part of the band.
Featured image credit: James Minchin III
Fourth year Film and Journalism student
Deputy editor
Contact - deputyeditor@brignews.com
