The news on Chester Bennington’s death has left fans, artists and celebrities from beyond the rock community stunned and many have offered up their condolences.
Bennington’s death comes on what would have been Chris Cornell’s 53rd birthday. The two had performed together in the past and were close friends, and Cornell even named Bennington the godfather of his son. After Cornell’s passing, Bennington performed “Hallelujah” at his funeral and dedicated “One More Light,” one of Linkin Park’s newest songs, to him during a segment on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
In 2008, he spoke with Rolling Stone about being able to take the stage with Cornell and his other musical heroes.
For me, I’m such a fan I think that’s the most important aspect of why I do what I do and how I do it. I’ve got to play with a lot of guys that I’ve grown up loving; I get to sing on stage with Chris Cornell, I got to play with Metallica and Black Sabbath, and I’ve performed songs with Jane’s Addiction, members of Guns n’ Roses, did the Doors 40th anniversary with the Doors and Perry Farrell onstage — I’m just like, ‘What world do I live in, ’cause this can’t be real?’
Following the news of Bennington’s passing, the Cornell family released a statement.
The Cornell family is overwhelmed by the heartbreaking news about Chester Bennington which tragically comes so soon after their family’s own loss. They open up their loving arms to Chester’s family and share in the sorrow with all those who loved him.
Just when I thought my heart couldn't break any more…..I love you T
— Vicky Cornell (@vickycornell) July 20, 2017
— LINKIN PARK (@linkinpark) July 20, 2017
Shocked and heartbroken, but it's true. An official statement will come out as soon as we have one.
— Mike Shinoda (@mikeshinoda) July 20, 2017
I am in tears.Chester just told me how happy he was…..He was such a sweet and talented man……Ifeel so sad for his family,band mates and fans
— (@NikkiSixx) July 20, 2017
RIP Chester. Tragic ending. Condolences his family and friends and Linkin Park
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) July 20, 2017
R.I.P Chester Bennington
My thoughts are with his family & friends today
He & @linkinpark are the kindest folks you could ever hoped to meet pic.twitter.com/abS1e4t3Oi— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) July 20, 2017
Honestly, Chester's an old friend who we've hung with many times, and I have friends who are extremely close to… https://t.co/ouYoGIiZiD
— Brian Welch (@brianheadwelch) July 20, 2017
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.
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) July 20, 2017
no words. so heartbroken. RIP Chester Bennington.
— Imagine Dragons (@Imaginedragons) July 20, 2017
So sorry to hear the news about Chester Bennington. Sending so much luv, strength & light to his family, kids & @linkinpark ohana.
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) July 20, 2017
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
— ONEREPUBLIC (@OneRepublic) July 20, 2017
