Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda says fans don’t like singer Emily Armstrong because she’s a woman
Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda addresses backlash towards new singer
- Linkin Park member Mike Shinoda stated that fans were "uncomfortable" with new singer Emily Armstrong because "she wasn’t a guy", as they were used to the band having six male members.
- Armstrong joined the nu-metal band in 2024, following the death of original frontman Chester Bennington in 2017.
- Bennington’s son, Jaime, and mother, Susan Eubanks, expressed their unhappiness, with Eubanks feeling "betrayed" for not being informed about the band's comeback.
- Fans also criticised Armstrong for her connection to Scientology and her past support for actor Danny Masterson, who was later convicted of rape.
- Armstrong issued a statement clarifying that she "misjudged" Masterson and does not condone abuse, as Linkin Park continues their global tour for their 2024 album, 'From Zero'.