Kat Von D blasts Linkin Park for replacing Chester Bennington with female singer: 'Feels gimmicky'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Kat Von D has sparked controversy by questioning Linkin Park’s recent decision to replace their late frontman, Chester Bennington, with a female vocalist, as reported by TMZ.

In an appearance on 'The Sailor Jerry' podcast, the tattoo artist and TV personality, who was a close friend of Bennington, expressed her disapproval of bands hiring new lead singers after losing their originals.

Kat Von D criticizes Linkin Park's decision to replace Chester Bennington with female singer

Von D specifically criticized Linkin Park’s choice to add Emily Armstrong as their new lead singer, suggesting that no replacement could recreate the "magic" of the original frontman. She referenced The Doors' unsuccessful attempt to replace Jim Morrison after his death as an example of why she believes bands shouldn't move forward with a new singer.

She went on to say that fans might prefer to see a hologram of Bennington or some technological reproduction of the late singer, rather than a new vocalist. According to Von D, replacing an iconic frontman often feels misguided and detracts from the band's essence.

The decision to bring in Armstrong, a female vocalist, also raised eyebrows for Von D. She suggested that it felt "gimmicky" and questioned whether the band was capitalizing on the change for financial reasons. While she didn’t criticize Armstrong’s talent directly, Von D openly wondered if the move was a cash grab.

Linkin Park recently announced a new world tour and an album featuring Armstrong as their lead vocalist. Linkin Park's September reunion was marked by the release of a new single, 'The Emptiness Machine,' along with the announcement of their upcoming album, 'From Zero.'

Alongside Armstrong, songwriter and producer Colin Brittain has joined Linkin Park as their new drummer. Original members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, and Joe Hahn have returned to the band, though founding drummer Rob Bourdon departed after Chester Bennington’s death.

Chester Bennington, who fronted Linkin Park as their lead vocalist for more than a decade, tragically took his own life in 2017.

Internet reacts as Linkin Park faces backlash from Kat Von D for moving on

The debate surrounding Linkin Park's decision to move forward with a new lead singer, Emily Armstrong, has ignited strong reactions on Facebook, especially after Kat Von D voiced her disapproval. 

One user expressed complete agreement, stating, "I agree with Kat , Linkin Park should have never replaced Chester with a female singer. They should have at least started a whole new band, but not replace Chester." 

Another fan added, "They can’t even call it Linkin Park without Chester, it’s so disrespectful. To me, he made Linkin Park what it is."

A user said, "I agree with her. I would have loved it if they had done a tour where the fans sung with Chester one last time and had the fans be the voice of Chester. Kinda like a farewell for the fans... then move on to something else with a new singer."

However, some fans supported Linkin Park's decision to continue making music with a new lead singer.

One user noted, "I like Linkin Park always have always will, but the thing is, I'm going to listen to the old Linkin Park. They have every right to move on with their lives and have a new lead singer."

Another user defended the band's choice, stating, "Hate this or not, but Chester made a decision to end his life... Doesn't mean it needs to end the band too. They deserve to keep creating and need a new lead singer."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.