In September 2024, Emily Armstrong, the newly appointed lead vocalist of Linkin Park, addressed fans, the band, and the broader community in an open letter following criticism over her past association with actor Danny Masterson, who was convicted of sexual assault. Armstrong’s letter aimed to clarify her previous actions and express her stance on the matter.
Background
Emily Armstrong, known for her role as the lead singer of Dead Sara, joined Linkin Park as their new vocalist in 2024, marking the band’s first major lineup change since the tragic passing of Chester Bennington in 2017. Her induction was initially met with enthusiasm; however, concerns arose regarding her past support for Danny Masterson, a fellow Scientologist and former friend. Armstrong had attended an early court hearing in support of Masterson, which led to public scrutiny once details of his crimes became widely known.
The Open Letter
In her letter, shared via Instagram, Armstrong wrote:
> “Hi, I’m Emily. I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back. 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. Unimaginable details emerged, and he was later found guilty.”
She continued:
> “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.”
Community Reaction
The response to Armstrong’s letter was mixed. Some fans appreciated her transparency and willingness to address the issue directly, viewing it as a necessary step toward moving forward. Others remained critical, questioning her past associations and the sincerity of her apology. Discussions also emerged regarding her involvement with the Church of Scientology, with some expressing concerns about potential implications for Linkin Park’s image.
Band’s Position
Linkin Park’s co-founder, Mike Shinoda, addressed the controversy on Discord, defending the decision to bring Armstrong into the band. He emphasized the importance of moving forward and focusing on the music, urging fans to give Armstrong a chance to prove herself as a valuable addition to the group.
Conclusion
Emily Armstrong’s open letter represents an effort to confront and clarify past actions that have caused concern among fans and the broader community. While reactions remain divided, her willingness to address the issue publicly demonstrates a commitment to transparency as she embarks on this new chapter with Linkin Park. The band’s future dynamics will likely depend on continued open communication and the quality of their collaborative efforts moving forward.