Emily Armstrong Responds to Backlash Over Support for Convicted Rapist Danny Masterson
Linkin Park’s new singer, Emily Armstrong, is facing criticism for her past support of convicted rapist Danny Masterson during his sexual assault trial.
Addressing Past Comments
The co-founder of Dead Sara took to social media to address comments made by Cedric Bixler-Zavala from the Mars Volta, alleging that she showed support for Masterson during preliminary hearings leading up to his 2020 trial. Chrissie Carnell-Bixler, Bixler-Zavala’s wife, was one of several women who accused the actor of sexual assault.
Emily Armstrong’s Response
In an Instagram Story, Armstrong explained, “Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance and attended 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.”
She concluded, “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.”
Linkin Park’s Return with Emily Armstrong
On September 5, Linkin Park announced their comeback with Emily Armstrong as Mike Shinoda’s new co-vocalist and Colin Brittain as drummer and co-producer. Following the livestream reveal, Bixler-Zavala shared past comments about Armstrong’s previous support for Masterson and her affiliation with the Church of Scientology.
Bixler-Zavala wrote in a comment on Dead Sara’s Instagram page, “Do your fans know about your friend Danny Masterson? Your rapist friend. Remember how your fellow scientologist goon squad surrounded one of the Jane Doe’s when she was trying to leave the elevators? The court sheriffs had to escort her away from your awful cult…”
Accusations Against Emily Armstrong
Chrissie Carnell-Bixler reportedly accused Armstrong of being a “hardcore Scientologist who supported convicted serial rapist both in and out of court.” She added, “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.”
Danny Masterson’s Sentencing
In September, Masterson was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for raping two women in the early 2000s. While he was not convicted on charges related to Chrissie Carnell-Bixler’s accusations, she is involved in a civil suit against him.
FAQs
Q: What was Emily Armstrong’s response to the backlash?
A: Emily Armstrong acknowledged her past support for Danny Masterson, stating that she misjudged him and does not condone abuse or violence against women.
Q: What role does Emily Armstrong play in Linkin Park?
A: Emily Armstrong is the new co-vocalist alongside Mike Shinoda in Linkin Park, following their recent comeback announcement.
Q: What led to Danny Masterson’s sentencing?
A: Danny Masterson was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for raping two women, although he was not convicted on all charges related to sexual assault accusations against him.
Credit: www.billboard.com
