Jaime voiced his frustrations on social media following the band’s September 5 livestream, where Linkin Park introduced Emily Armstrong as their new co-lead vocalist. “You hired your friend of many years, Emily Armstrong, to replace Chester… knowing Emily’s history in the church and her history as an ally to Danny Masterson,” Jaime wrote on Instagram.
He further stated, “You quietly erase[d] my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month and refuse to acknowledge the impact of hiring someone like Emily, without so much as a clarifying statement on the variety of victims that make up your core fan base.”
Jaime also directed his anger towards Shinoda, saying, “You betrayed the trust loaned to you by decades of fans and supporting human beings including myself. 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.”
In another Instagram story, Jaime disclosed, “I will be attending the 9/11 show… For now with tickets bought by a supporter. Still waiting on Linkin Park and MGMT to acknowledge me. While attending the show please do not harass me or my partner. Respectfully, we are attending for closure. For acknowledgement. I’m grieving.”
Linkin Park recently revealed Armstrong as their new vocalist after weeks of teasing. They also unveiled a new song, ‘The Emptiness Machine,’ from their upcoming album. Armstrong joined the group following Bennington’s death in 2017. While many fans have welcomed the news, some have expressed concern about Armstrong’s prior connections to Scientology and her association with convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
Emily Armstrong responded to the criticism on Instagram, saying, “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.”
She continued, “I have never spoken with him since. Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty. 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.”
So far, neither Shinoda nor the band has responded to Jaime’s accusations. Meanwhile, Chester Bennington’s widow, Talinda, has shown her support for Linkin Park’s return with Armstrong. She left a heart and fire emoji on Instagram to signal her approval.
Photo Credit: Jaime Bennington – Instagram
