Chester Bennington’s mother feels betrayed by Linkin Park reunion

Susan Eubanks, the mother of late Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington, expressed feelings of betrayal regarding the band's recent reunion with a new vocalist, Emily Armstrong. She revealed that she was not informed about the reunion plans, despite previous assurances from the band that they would notify her of any significant developments. Eubanks discovered the news through an online search, which left her feeling upset and blindsided. Eubanks had been in discussions with Mike Shinoda about potentially releasing archived songs featuring her son’s vocals, indicating her ongoing connection to the band’s legacy. However, the announcement of Armstrong joining the band came as a shock, as she had expected to be consulted or at least informed beforehand. She reflected on a past conversation where Bennington had mentioned that the band might consider a female singer if he were to leave. In her interview, Eubanks criticized the band for attempting to replace her son’s unique voice, suggesting that no one could replicate his talent. She expressed concern that the band was trying to erase Chester's legacy by moving forward without his presence. Music critic Mark Beaumont weighed in on the situation, noting that the band's decision to reunite could jeopardize their legacy, depending on how they address public sentiment. The reunion has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising Armstrong's performances while others question the band's direction. The future of Linkin Park's comeback remains uncertain as they navigate the complexities of honoring their past while pursuing new musical endeavors.