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Entertainment • Musician

Chester Bennington

Chester Bennington was an American singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Chester Bennington was an American singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, a band that included Mike Shinoda. He also performed with Grey Daze, Dead by Sunrise, and Stone Temple Pilots. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, he died in Palos Verdes Estates, California, in 2017 at age 41.

Early life

Chester Charles Bennington was born in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1976. Public biographical sources identify him as an American musician and singer.

Career

Bennington became widely known as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, alongside Mike Shinoda. He also performed with Grey Daze, Dead by Sunrise, and Stone Temple Pilots at different points in his career.

Death

Bennington died on July 20, 2017, in Palos Verdes Estates, California, at the age of 41. Public biographical sources describe his death as suicide by hanging.

Legacy

Bennington is remembered as one of the most prominent voices in rock and nu metal. His work with Linkin Park brought him international recognition. His legacy is often discussed alongside that of Mike Shinoda.

Canadian impact

Bennington had a significant Canadian audience through Linkin Park’s international popularity and rock-radio presence in Canada. The band, which included Mike Shinoda, was popular in Canada.

Key facts

  • Best known as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park.
  • Also fronted Grey Daze, Dead by Sunrise, and Stone Temple Pilots.
  • Born Chester Charles Bennington in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1976.
  • Died in 2017 at age 41 in Palos Verdes Estates, California.
  • Was active as a singer, songwriter, and actor.
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Canadian context

Bennington had a significant Canadian audience through Linkin Park’s international popularity and rock-radio presence in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Chester Bennington?
He was an American singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park.
When was Chester Bennington born?
He was born on March 20, 1976.
What bands was Chester Bennington in?
He was associated with Linkin Park, Grey Daze, Dead by Sunrise, and Stone Temple Pilots.
Where was Chester Bennington born?
He was born in Phoenix, Arizona, United States.
When did Chester Bennington die?
He died on July 20, 2017, at age 41.
What is Chester Bennington best known for?
He is best known as the lead singer of Linkin Park.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chester_Bennington
    Supports: Birth name, birth and death dates, nationality, and main bands.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1057933/
    Supports: Basic biographical details and death place.
  3. Linkinpedia — https://linkinpedia.com/wiki/Chester_Bennington
    Supports: Bennington joining Linkin Park in 1999.