GettyChester Bennington (L) walks to the podium to sing during the memorial service for Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell, May 26, 2017 at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.
Chester Bennington of Linkin Park was found dead this morning after he committed suicide by hanging. He was found on what would have his close friend Chris Cornell’s 53rd birthday. Chris also committed suicide by hanging. The two were very close, and Chester was even the godfather for one of Chris’s children. Fans are now wondering if Chris Cornell’s own suicide played a role in Chester’s decision to take his own life.
Here’s more about their friendship.
1. Chester Bennington Wrote a Heartfelt Note About Chris Cornell in May
With all of my love @chriscornell.
In May, shortly after Chris died, Chester wrote a heartfelt note about Chris. “I’m still weeping, with sadness, as well as gratitude for having shared some very special moments with you and your beautiful family,” he wrote.
He went on to say that Chris had inspired him in ways that he never even knew.
“I can’t imagine a world without you in it,” he wrote.
2. Chester Was the Godfather of One of Chris’s Children
Chester and Chris were so close that Chris asked Chester to be the godfather to one of his children. You can see Chester at Christopher Nicholas’ baptism in the photo above.
3. They Sometimes Performed Together
In the video above, you can see Chris Cornell performing a song featuring Chester Bennington from Linkin Park. This was posted in 2009.
The two were very close.
Chris Cornell remembered by his good friend Chester Bennington t.co/oVNZ0hCtrT / via @SPIN
4. Chester Bennington Sang at Chris Cornell’s Funeral
Chris Cornell was only 52 when he died. Chester sang a heartfelt rendition of Hallelujah at his friend’s funeral. You can watch the video of his performance above.
5. Fans Are Mourning the Deaths of These Two Friends
GettyBrad Delson and Chester Bennington perform during funeral services for Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell at Hollywood Forever Cemetery on May 26, 2017 in Hollywood, California.
Fans were quick to pick up on the tragic connection between Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington. They’ve been sharing messages on social media with their condolences and heartbreak.
The fact we’ve lost Chester Bennington to suicide on Chris Cornell’s birthday is chilling. I hope if you’re in doubt that YOU choose LIFE.
Chester Bennington going right after Chris Cornell…depression is too real an enemy. Please reach out for help if sadness is gripping you.