Chester Bennington's son has criticized Linkin Park’s decision to bring in Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist.
On Thursday (September 5), the California-based rock band announced during a livestream that they are making a highly anticipated comeback.
Not only is the iconic band returning with new music, but they have also recruited two new members: Emily Armstrong, a member of the alt-rock band Dead Sara, and drummer Colin Brittain, who replaced Rob Bourdon.
They will be joining the returning members: Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, and Phoenix.
Armstrong joined Linkin Park as their new vocalist. Credit: Timothy Norris / GettyThe 38-year-old singer's debut comes seven years after Chester Bennington, the late frontman, tragically took his own life at the age of 41 in 2017.
The group released an official tribute statement at the time, which read: "Dear Chester, Our hearts are broken. The shockwaves of grief and denial are still sweeping through our family as we come to grips with what has happened.
"You touched so many lives, maybe even more than you realized. In the past few days, we’ve seen an outpouring of love and support, both public and private, from around the world. Talinda and the family appreciate it, and want the world to know that you were the best husband, son, and father; the family will never be whole without you," they added.
Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington died in 2017. Credit: Gregg DeGuire / Getty
While some fans were happy with Linkin Park's decision to return with a revamped look, others were left disgruntled.
This is because there have been claims that Armstrong supported Danny Masterson, the That '70s Show actor who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023.mainie
Bennington's son, Jaime, also chimed in on the speculation and aired his discontent with Armstrong's inclusion on Monday (September 9).Read the post below:
While some fans were happy with Linkin Park's decision to return with a revamped look, others were left disgruntled.
This is because there have been claims that Armstrong supported Danny Masterson, the That '70s Show actor who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023.mainie
Bennington's son, Jaime, also chimed in on the speculation and aired his discontent with Armstrong's inclusion on Monday (September 9).Read the post below:
Chester's son Jamie hit out at the band for erasing his father's legacy. Credit: Thepicturepiecesarchive Instagram Story
Taking to his Instagram Story, Jaime accused the band's co-founder Mike Shinoda of “quietly [erasing] my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month," as cited by The Independent.
He highlighted the new vocalist's alleged links with the Church of Scientology as well as her support of Masterson and said that the group had “failed to address the concerns of their diverse fanbase” and that their recent actions are “not something people should acclimate to".
In a series of comments, he wrote that the band “betrayed the trust” of the fanbase, adding: “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."
Jaime claimed in a post on Tuesday (September 10) that Shinoda has now blocked him on the social media platform.
Armstrong has addressed claims that she supports Masterson. Credit: Timothy Norris/Getty
Although Shinoda has not publicly addressed Jaime’s objections, Armstrong has spoken out against the claims she still supports Masterson via her Instagram story, cited by Forbes.
"Hi, I’m Emily,” Armstrong began. “I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back.”
She went on to explain her connection to Masterson, writing: “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.
"Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since," she continued.
“Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty,” she said, claiming that she distanced herself from the disgraced actor.
“To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes,” Armstrong emphasized.
The announcement that Armstrong had joined Linkin Park was accompanied by a new single 'The Emptiness Machine' and the news that the band will release their new album, From Zero, on November 15.
The group will also be embarking on a six-date world tour in support of their new project, kicking off in Los Angeles on September 11.
Featured image credit: David Crotty / Getty
Chester Bennington's son has criticized Linkin Park’s decision to bring in Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist.
On Thursday (September 5), the California-based rock band announced during a livestream that they are making a highly anticipated comeback.
Not only is the iconic band returning with new music, but they have also recruited two new members: Emily Armstrong, a member of the alt-rock band Dead Sara, and drummer Colin Brittain, who replaced Rob Bourdon.
They will be joining the returning members: Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, and Phoenix.
Armstrong joined Linkin Park as their new vocalist. Credit: Timothy Norris / Getty
The 38-year-old singer's debut comes seven years after Chester Bennington, the late frontman, tragically took his own life at the age of 41 in 2017.
The group released an official tribute statement at the time, which read: "Dear Chester, Our hearts are broken. The shockwaves of grief and denial are still sweeping through our family as we come to grips with what has happened.
"You touched so many lives, maybe even more than you realized. In the past few days, we’ve seen an outpouring of love and support, both public and private, from around the world. Talinda and the family appreciate it, and want the world to know that you were the best husband, son, and father; the family will never be whole without you," they added.
Taking to his Instagram Story, Jaime accused the band's co-founder Mike Shinoda of “quietly [erasing] my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month," as cited by The Independent.
He highlighted the new vocalist's alleged links with the Church of Scientology as well as her support of Masterson and said that the group had “failed to address the concerns of their diverse fanbase” and that their recent actions are “not something people should acclimate to".
In a series of comments, he wrote that the band “betrayed the trust” of the fanbase, adding: “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."
Jaime claimed in a post on Tuesday (September 10) that Shinoda has now blocked him on the social media platform.
Armstrong has addressed claims that she supports Masterson. Credit: Timothy Norris/GettyAlthough Shinoda has not publicly addressed Jaime’s objections, Armstrong has spoken out against the claims she still supports Masterson via her Instagram story, cited by Forbes.
"Hi, I’m Emily,” Armstrong began. “I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back.”
She went on to explain her connection to Masterson, writing: “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.
"Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since," she continued.
“Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty,” she said, claiming that she distanced herself from the disgraced actor.
“To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes,” Armstrong emphasized.
The announcement that Armstrong had joined Linkin Park was accompanied by a new single 'The Emptiness Machine' and the news that the band will release their new album, From Zero, on November 15.
The group will also be embarking on a six-date world tour in support of their new project, kicking off in Los Angeles on September 11.
Featured image credit: David Crotty / Getty
Chester Bennington's son has criticized Linkin Park’s decision to bring in Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist.
On Thursday (September 5), the California-based rock band announced during a livestream that they are making a highly anticipated comeback.
Not only is the iconic band returning with new music, but they have also recruited two new members: Emily Armstrong, a member of the alt-rock band Dead Sara, and drummer Colin Brittain, who replaced Rob Bourdon.
They will be joining the returning members: Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, and Phoenix.
Armstrong joined Linkin Park as their new vocalist. Credit: Timothy Norris / GettyThe 38-year-old singer's debut comes seven years after Chester Bennington, the late frontman, tragically took his own life at the age of 41 in 2017.
The group released an official tribute statement at the time, which read: "Dear Chester, Our hearts are broken. The shockwaves of grief and denial are still sweeping through our family as we come to grips with what has happened.
"You touched so many lives, maybe even more than you realized. In the past few days, we’ve seen an outpouring of love and support, both public and private, from around the world. Talinda and the family appreciate it, and want the world to know that you were the best husband, son, and father; the family will never be whole without you," they added.
Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington died in 2017. Credit: Gregg DeGuire / Getty
While some fans were happy with Linkin Park's decision to return with a revamped look, others were left disgruntled.
This is because there have been claims that Armstrong supported Danny Masterson, the That '70s Show actor who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023.mainie
Bennington's son, Jaime, also chimed in on the speculation and aired his discontent with Armstrong's inclusion on Monday (September 9).Read the post below:
While some fans were happy with Linkin Park's decision to return with a revamped look, others were left disgruntled.
This is because there have been claims that Armstrong supported Danny Masterson, the That '70s Show actor who was convicted of raping two women and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023.mainie
Bennington's son, Jaime, also chimed in on the speculation and aired his discontent with Armstrong's inclusion on Monday (September 9).Read the post below:
Chester's son Jamie hit out at the band for erasing his father's legacy. Credit: Thepicturepiecesarchive Instagram Story
Taking to his Instagram Story, Jaime accused the band's co-founder Mike Shinoda of “quietly [erasing] my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month," as cited by The Independent.
He highlighted the new vocalist's alleged links with the Church of Scientology as well as her support of Masterson and said that the group had “failed to address the concerns of their diverse fanbase” and that their recent actions are “not something people should acclimate to".
In a series of comments, he wrote that the band “betrayed the trust” of the fanbase, adding: “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."
Jaime claimed in a post on Tuesday (September 10) that Shinoda has now blocked him on the social media platform.
Armstrong has addressed claims that she supports Masterson. Credit: Timothy Norris/GettyAlthough Shinoda has not publicly addressed Jaime’s objections, Armstrong has spoken out against the claims she still supports Masterson via her Instagram story, cited by Forbes.
"Hi, I’m Emily,” Armstrong began. “I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back.”
She went on to explain her connection to Masterson, writing: “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.
"Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since," she continued.
“Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty,” she said, claiming that she distanced herself from the disgraced actor.
“To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes,” Armstrong emphasized.
The announcement that Armstrong had joined Linkin Park was accompanied by a new single 'The Emptiness Machine' and the news that the band will release their new album, From Zero, on November 15.
The group will also be embarking on a six-date world tour in support of their new project, kicking off in Los Angeles on September 11.
Featured image credit: David Crotty / Getty
Linkin Park is back with a new lineup and world tour, seven years after the death of lead singer Chester Bennington.
The California-based rock band is one of the most successful acts of the 2000s, releasing 11 number-one singles on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.
Back in 2017, it was announced that the group's main vocalist, Bennington, tragically took his own life at the age of 41.
The group released an official tribute statement at the time, which read: "Dear Chester, Our hearts are broken. The shockwaves of grief and denial are still sweeping through our family as we come to grips with what has happened."
Linkin Park's Chester Bennington (left) died in 2017. Credit: Christina Radish / GettyIn the years since, Linkin Park has dropped several re-releases, including 20th-anniversary editions of Hybrid Theory, Meteora and, this year, their greatest hits collection, Papercuts.
On Thursday (September 5), the band held a livestream where they announced that they had recruited two new members: singer Emily Armstrong, a member of the alt-rock band Dead Sara, and drummer Colin Brittain, who replaced Rob Bourdon.
They will be joining the returning members: Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, and Phoenix, all of whom founded the group in Agoura Hills in 1996.
“This is a very special day for us,” Shinoda said as he led introductions. “In the role of Chester Bennington, this afternoon is each of you.”
Many excited fans have taken to social media to praise the band for their new direction.
"Chester is irreplaceable but Linkin Park needs to evolve and Emily sounds f***ing great. I also love seeing more bada** women kicking a** in the rock/metal scene," one user penned.
"I don't think there can ever be a true replacement for Chester but DAYUM Emily Armstrong really is doing him justice," a second shared.
A third shared a clip of Armstong's performance and wrote: "If you can sit down, watch this, and not think Emily Armstrong is the perfect fit for the new direction Linkin Park are headed then I can only assume you are deaf. She is incredible!"
Emily Armstrong is a new member of Linkin Park. Credit: Timothy Norris / GettyThe Grammy-winning act will release a new 11-track album titled From Zero on November 15, their first since 2017’s One More Light, which came out just two months before Bennington's death.
Shinoda opened up about the group's upcoming releases and new members, sharing: “The more we worked with Emily and Colin, the more we enjoyed their world-class talents, their company, and the things we created," per AP News.
“We feel really empowered with this new lineup and the vibrant and energized new music we’ve made together. We’re weaving together the sonic touchpoints we’ve been known for and still exploring new ones," he added.
The band also announced that they will perform in many cities worldwide, starting with a show at Inglewood’s Kia Forum on Sept. 11.
Other tour dates are NYC; Hamburg, Germany; London, England; Seoul, South Korea; and, Bogota, Colombia.
Featured image credit: Timothy Norris / Getty
Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega's new music video is so crazy is comes with a warning
Sabrina Carpenter's new music video featuring Jenna Ortega has gone viral within 24 hours of its release - and we can certainly see why.
Carpenter has released the music video for her hit 'Taste.' Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic/GettyNow, Carpenter has well and truly cemented herself as the woman of the year, dropping not one, but two ultimate hot girl summer anthems including 'Espresso' and 'Please, Please, Please'.
But she's going for a triple win here just as the peak of the season winds down, gracing us with the drama that is 'Taste'.
Not only does it come with a warning for graphic content, but we also get to see the singer take on a character we've never seen her play alongside Ortega.
Carpenter stars alongside Ortega in her latest music video. Credit: Matt Winkelmeyer/MG23/Getty/The Met Museum/VogueThe video starts off with a message stating: "PARENTAL ADVISORY AND VIEWER WARNING: The following video contains explicit content and depicts graphic violence which may be offensive to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised."
So with that in mind, the storyline begins with a chilling rendition of the lullaby 'Rock A Bye Baby' before panning to a bed with multiple weapons including knives and handcuffs.
Amongst all the silverware, there's a deep nude lipstick that Carpenter picks up before she starts singing.
The 3-minute clip then breaks out into modern-day references to the 1992 film 'Death Becomes Her' which stars Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn.Have a look at the full video below:
As they fight over a boyfriend - played by actor Rohan Campbell - Ortega sets Carpenter on fire, cuts her arm off, throws her out of a window, and impales her on a white picket fence, before electrocuting her.
It might all sound quite sinister with the murder weapons, amputations, and gallons of blood that she and the 'Wednesday' actress spill, but it's actually a more humorous take on the 90s storyline - if you can imagine that?
And the pair even share a raunchy, little smooch at the end.
Hundreds of excited fans took to the comments on YouTube to express their love for the music video, as well as the song.
"SABRINA AND JENNA BEING TOGETHER WAS SO UNEXPECTED," wrote one user while another added: "Omg two Disney kids, two beauties and two girlies who match each other's energy so well. Absolutely iconic and unexpected but lovin it!!"
A third even pointed out Easter eggs throughout the clip stating: "The kiss on the ducktape from 'please please please' and the lipstick from 'espresso '!!! The Sabrinaverse is really coming together."
And this person also chimed in writing: "The kiss, the outfits, the plot, omg I think we've found ourselves a winner you guys."
We sure have.
Carpenter and Ortega shared a kiss in the music video and fans are going wild over it online. Credit: Marleen Moise/GettyThe video has already amassed over 12 million views in under 24 hours and as more and more people head over to give it a watch, we're not expecting the hype around this one to die out for a long time coming.
Featured Image Credit: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Coachella
Twitch streamer Ninja divides internet after saying he never allows himself to be alone in a room with any woman aside from his wife
Twitch streamer Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins has stirred controversy with his recent statements about avoiding being alone with women, except for his wife.
Twitch streamer Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins has divided the internet with his recent statements about avoiding being alone with women, except for his wife. Credit: Robert Reiners / GettyHis remarks come in the wake of allegations involving Ava Kris Tyson, who recently left MrBeast’s team following revelations about inappropriate messages sent to a minor.
In a video posted online, Ninja addressed the controversy, emphasizing his strict policy of never being alone with a woman who is not his wife. He stated: “It’s f**king simple. I don’t care who you are, I don’t care what you are, I don’t care what community you’re part of. Don’t talk to anyone underage. Hello? It’s not difficult. Just don’t do it. What year is it? How hard is it?"
"I go out of my way to make sure that I am never even alone in a another room with a woman," he added. "Ever."
Ninja elaborated that his policy extends beyond personal interactions, including professional relationships. He said: “Even my PR person, it doesn’t matter who it is. I don’t care if they work with me, whatever. There is someone else in that room at all times. If we’re alone, I leave. Instantly.”
Credit: Robert Reiners / Getty
Ninja explained his approach to direct messaging, stating: “As for anyone else, I don’t DM anyone. I DM my boys. I DM guys in the community. There’s no private messages going on with any girls.
"If there are, it’s someone like Chica or people in this space. And then I let my wife know. If I don’t know you, I’m not DMing you. I don’t wanna get to know you and find out you’re only seven.”
The streamer’s remarks have sparked a range of reactions on social media. Some critics described Ninja’s stance as excessive and paranoid.
One individual commented: “A bit weird and paranoid. But I get it. He doesn't wanna risk destroying his career over bad optics and misunderstandings from the public.”
Another said: “Bro is paranoid for real,” while a third remarked: “Imagine being this insecure in your relationship.”
On the other hand, some defended Ninja’s approach, considering it a cautious strategy given his high profile. One supporter wrote: “For someone of his level of fame, this is pretty valid.”
This is not the first time Ninja has expressed such views. In 2018, he revealed that he avoids gaming alone with women, although he would participate if others were also present in the stream.
Featured image credit: Robert Reiners / Getty
Home Run Derby rocked by 'the worst rendition of the National Anthem' fans have 'ever heard'
Baseball viewers have hit out at what is being called the "worst" rendition of the US national anthem ever.
Ingrid Andress sings the national anthem prior to the 2024 Home Run Derby. Credit: Daniel Shirey / Getty
Yes, the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby kicked off with unexpected controversy as Ingrid Andress’ rendition of the national anthem left audiences and social media users dismayed.
Held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, Monday’s event began on a discordant note with Andress’ heavily-criticized performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
Criticism swiftly flooded social media platforms, where users likened her rendition to historical low points when it comes to anthem performances.
During Andress’ performance, visible reactions from players like Philadelphia Phillies’ Alec Bohm - who appeared to be stifling laughter - only served to further highlight the uncomfortable atmosphere.
Social media responses ranged from incredulity to humorous comparisons, with some creating hashtags like #FrancisScottOffKey and #StarStrangledBanner to express their disappointment.
"My ears are bleeding. One of the worst national anthem renditions ever," one person tweeted.
A second added: "Just when I thought nothing could unite this country, America comes together to dunk on — and I say this as politely and objectively as possible — the worst national anthem performance of all time."
Ninja explained his approach to direct messaging, stating: “As for anyone else, I don’t DM anyone. I DM my boys. I DM guys in the community. There’s no private messages going on with any girls.
"If there are, it’s someone like Chica or people in this space. And then I let my wife know. If I don’t know you, I’m not DMing you. I don’t wanna get to know you and find out you’re only seven.”
The streamer’s remarks have sparked a range of reactions on social media. Some critics described Ninja’s stance as excessive and paranoid.
One individual commented: “A bit weird and paranoid. But I get it. He doesn't wanna risk destroying his career over bad optics and misunderstandings from the public.”
Another said: “Bro is paranoid for real,” while a third remarked: “Imagine being this insecure in your relationship.”
On the other hand, some defended Ninja’s approach, considering it a cautious strategy given his high profile. One supporter wrote: “For someone of his level of fame, this is pretty valid.”
This is not the first time Ninja has expressed such views. In 2018, he revealed that he avoids gaming alone with women, although he would participate if others were also present in the stream.
Featured image credit: Robert Reiners / Getty
Home Run Derby rocked by 'the worst rendition of the National Anthem' fans have 'ever heard'
Baseball viewers have hit out at what is being called the "worst" rendition of the US national anthem ever.
Ingrid Andress sings the national anthem prior to the 2024 Home Run Derby. Credit: Daniel Shirey / GettyYes, the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby kicked off with unexpected controversy as Ingrid Andress’ rendition of the national anthem left audiences and social media users dismayed.
Held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, Monday’s event began on a discordant note with Andress’ heavily-criticized performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
Criticism swiftly flooded social media platforms, where users likened her rendition to historical low points when it comes to anthem performances.
During Andress’ performance, visible reactions from players like Philadelphia Phillies’ Alec Bohm - who appeared to be stifling laughter - only served to further highlight the uncomfortable atmosphere.
Social media responses ranged from incredulity to humorous comparisons, with some creating hashtags like #FrancisScottOffKey and #StarStrangledBanner to express their disappointment.
"My ears are bleeding. One of the worst national anthem renditions ever," one person tweeted.
A second added: "Just when I thought nothing could unite this country, America comes together to dunk on — and I say this as politely and objectively as possible — the worst national anthem performance of all time."
