Almost as soon as Linkin Park announced Dead Sara singer Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist, a wave of criticism flooded the internet over her past ties to Scientology and her support of disgraced former “That ‘70s Show” star Danny Masterson.
The actor is serving a 30 years to life in prison sentence. Armstrong responded to her past connection to Masterson in an Instagram story post. “Hi, I’m Emily,” she wrote. “I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back.”
“Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer. Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since.”
“Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty. To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes.”
Mars Volta singer Cedric Bixler-Zavala and his wife Chrissie Carnell-Bixler were the most vocal in their criticism of Armstrong. Carnell-Bixler wrote: “Linkin Park’s new lead singer is a hardcore Scientologist who supported convicted serial r*pist both in and out of court. Emily Armstrong is a true believer of the Scientology cult/criminal organization that engages in human and child trafficking, child and elder abuse, the coverups of countless [sexual assaults] on children and adults. Also is. true believe of [L. Ron Hubbard] who said homosexuals are sexual deviants on the same level as pedophiles and all homosexuals should be sent off to a leper colony. You can read all about Scientologists’ views on LGBT community in ‘Science of Survival’ or ‘Dianetics.’”
She said in another post: “Scientology is a human and child trafficking organization protected by a 501(c)3 granted under the Clinton Administration. Linkin Park just replaced Chester with a hardcore 2nd generation Scientologist. Rest In Peace.”
