The members of Linkin Park released a statement on Monday regarding the recent death of their lead vocalist Chester Bennington, who died last Thursday at age 41.
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.
Talking with you about the years ahead together, your excitement was infectious. Your absence leaves a void that can never be filled—a boisterous, funny, ambitious, creative, kind, generous voice in the room is missing. We’re trying to remind ourselves that the demons who took you away from us were always part of the deal. After all, it was the way you sang about those demons that made everyone fall in love with you in the first place. You fearlessly put them on display, and in doing so, brought us together and taught us to be more human. You had the biggest heart, and managed to wear it on your sleeve.
Our love for making and performing music is inextinguishable. While we don’t know what path our future may take, we know that each of our lives was made better by you. Thank you for that gift. We love you, and miss you so much.
Until we see you again,
LP
Linink Park’s last performance with Bennington was July 3 at The O2 Arena in London. The band was scheduled to launch the One More Light World Tour beginning July 27, which has no been cancelled. Ticket refunds are avialable at the point of purchase.
The L.A. County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that Bennington died of suicide by hanging.
If you or someone you know is considering or at risk of committing suicide please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
