The son of the late Chester Bennington, the former lead singer of Linkin Park, has recently voiced his concerns about the band's new frontman, citing religious differences as a significant factor in his criticism. This development has drawn attention and stirred discussions among fans and the broader music community.
- Linkin Park have replaced Chester Bennington
- Chester Bennington's son has spoken out
- THIS is what he had to say
Wounds that would not heal
Chester Bennington’s son, who has been vocal about his father's legacy and the direction of the band since Bennington's tragic death in 2017, has expressed dissatisfaction with the choice of the band’s new lead singer. The replacement, who was selected to fill the role after Bennington's passing, comes from a different religious background, which has become a point of contention for the Bennington family.
In his statements, Bennington's son articulated that the religious differences were more than a personal issue; they represented a broader concern about the direction and integrity of the band’s identity. This criticism reflects the deep emotional impact that Chester Bennington’s death continues to have on his family, and it highlights the complexities of maintaining a band’s legacy while introducing new members.
He claimed Linkin Park co-founder Mike Shinoda had “quietly erased my father’s life and legacy in real time … during international suicide prevention month.”
He then hit out at Armstrong’s past, referencing her ties with the Church of Scientology as well as her support of Danny Masterson, who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023.
He went on to allege that the band had “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.”
“You have betrayed the trust loaned to you by decades of fans and supporting human beings including myself,” he continued. “We trusted you to be the bigger better person. To be the change. Because you promised us that was your intention. Now you’re just senile and tone deaf. Insane.”
The band, which has been navigating the challenges of moving forward without its iconic frontman, faces both internal and external pressures as it adapts to this new chapter. The criticism from Chester Bennington’s son adds a layer of complexity to the band's efforts to honor their past while shaping their future.
This situation underscores the broader issues often faced by bands when dealing with significant changes in their lineup, particularly when the new members come from different backgrounds or have different personal beliefs. It also illustrates the ongoing challenges of balancing personal beliefs and family dynamics with the demands of a high-profile musical career.
Although Shinoda has not publicly addressed Jamie’s criticisms, Armstrong has spoken out against the claims she still supports Masterson.
”Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer,” she wrote on her Instagram story on September 7.
“Soon after, I realised I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since.”
Fans of the band have also questioned Armstrong due to her links to the controversial Church of Scientology.
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Phrase Misused
As the band moves forward, it will need to address these concerns while continuing to engage with its fan base and maintain its artistic direction. For now, the comments from Chester Bennington’s son serve as a poignant reminder of the emotional weight carried by those close to the late musician and the enduring legacy of his work.
