Skip to content

Linkin Park's Chester Bennington dies, stars of music pay tribute

Getty Images Chester BenningtonGetty Images

Rihanna and Stormzy are among the stars mourning Linkin Park's Chester Bennington who has died, aged 41.

The Los Angeles County Coroner's office confirmed the death and said the singer had apparently hanged himself.

Chester's bandmate and friend, Mike Shinoda, tweeted that he was "shocked and heartbroken".

The band's debut Hybrid Theory remains one of the biggest selling albums of the millennium.

Last night they posted a photo of the singer, surrounded by fans.

The Twitter post has been retweeted and liked hundreds of thousands of times.

Tributes to the singer from across the musical spectrum have been paid on social media.

Linkin Park's co-founder Mike Shinoda said an official statement from the band would be released soon.

He tweeted: "Shocked and heartbroken."

Nikki Sixx tweeted: "I am in tears. Chester just told me how happy he was. He was such a sweet and talented man. I feel so sad for his family, bandmates and fans

PA Chester Bennington with fellow band member Mike Shinoda in FebruaryPA
Fellow band member and vocalist Mike Shinoda (R) was a close of friend of Bennington

Stormzy, who recently collaborated with Linkin Park, said: "I can't lie I'm so upset serious."

"I am heartbroken. You don't know what someone's going through."

Rihanna paid tribute on Instagram.

"Literally the most impressive talent I've ever seen live."

Justin Timberlake called Chester "Truly unique".

British group You Me At Six tweeted: "Our thoughts are with Chester Bennington's family & all of Linkin Park at this remarkably difficult time. A voice of a generation."

Imagine Dragons said that there were "no words" for Chester's death and the band was "so heartbroken".

EPA Stormzy at festival in Spain - 13 JulyEPA
Stormzy collaborated with Linkin Park earlier this year

Katy Perry wrote 'Rest in Peace' and urged people to seek help if they are suffering.

OneRepublic wrote: "Massive R.I.P to Chester Bennington of Linkin Park. This BREAKS OUR HEART."

Actor and wrestler The Rock offered his condolences, saying "So sorry to hear the news about Chester Bennington. Sending so much luv, strength & light to his family, kids & Linkin Park."

Vlogger Joe Sugg wrote: "He had such a huge part of my growing up. To the point where my first ever sim I created was Chester Bennington."

You can find support and advice on issues around suicide on these BBC Advice pages.

Find us on Instagram at BBCNewsbeat and follow us on Snapchat, search for bbc_newsbeat