Friends, celebrities, and fans reacted to the news on Thursday, July 20, that Linkin Park frontman, Chester Bennington committed suicide.
“Shocked and heartbroken, but it’s true. An official statement will come out as soon as we have one,” Benington’s bandmate, Mike Shinoda, wrote.
Kimmy Kimmel, TV host: “Chester was one of the kindest men I’ve had on my show. My heart breaks for his family and friends. He will be missed terribly.”
Lady Gaga: “My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and fans of Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington.”
Ryan Seacrest, TV producer: “The news about Chester Bennington is devastating. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and @linkinpark. Such a tragic loss.”
Elvis Duran, radio host: “Seeming to be happy is never enough. RIP.”
One Republic: “Oh dear God. Massive R.I.P. to Chester Bennington of @linkinpark this BREAKS OUR HEART. Suicide is the devil on earth walking amongst us.”
(L-R) Joe Hahn, Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Chester Bennington, Dave Farrell, and Rob Bourdon of Linkin Park with the Favorite Alternative Artist award in the press room at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif. (Jason Merritt/Getty Images)Thousands of Linkin Park fans took to Twitter to express their grief. For many, Linkin Park was the soundtrack to childhood.
“Linkin Park was my childhood. No words can describe how devastating this is!”
“Linkin Park got me into music when I was 9 years old and was the only rock band I truly listened to.”
“Today, Linkin Park’s lost a family member, i’ve lost my childhood. Thank you, legend.”
“Linkin Park & Chester Bennington were a big part of my middle & high school days. Always enjoyed their music. RIP Chester you beautiful soul.”
“Chester Bennington. Linkin Park’s lead singer. One more sweet voice silenced by suicide. How can this be? Beyond devastated. Such talent.”
“Linkin Park played a huge part in the soundtrack of my teenage years. I’m incredibly devastated.”
One Twitter user pointed out that the track list from Linkin Park’s most recent album felt like a call for help.
Others on Twitter pointed to how Linkin Park’s music helped them get past the difficult years in their youth.
“Chester Bennington’s suicide is so sad. Like most angsty teens in the early 2000s, Linkin Park was a pretty big part of my youth.”
“Linkin Park’s music got me through my own depression as a preteen and teenager. My heart goes out to Chester’s friends & family.”
“I’m gutted. Chester Bennington and Linkin Park got me past my youth. Very unfortunate.”
