Linkin Park singer Emily Armstrong has spoken out about her past support for actor and convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
Armstrong was revealed as Linkin Park’s new “co-vocalist” last week, but her appointment to the group came under a cloud of controversy when fans pointed out she had previously supported Masterson – who, like Armstrong, is a member of the church of Scientology – during his 2023 rape trial.
Posting on her Instagram story over the weekend, Armstrong said she “wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back”.
Alluding to the controversy without explicitly addressing it, she explained: “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 realised 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.
Armstrong concluded: “To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathise with the victims of these crimes.”
Masterson, previously known for his work on That 70s Show, was convicted in May 2023 of raping two women in 2003, although a third allegation dating back to 2001 resulted in a hung jury.
His former co-stars Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis both also received backlash when they wrote letters to the judge in Masterson’s case, asking for leniency in his sentencing.
The couple later issued a public apology for this in a joint video message.