The recent announcement of Dead Sara vocalist Emily Armstrong joining Linkin Park has drawn criticism from at least one prominent musician. Cedric Bixler-Zavala, known for his work with The Mars Volta and At The Drive-In, has previously criticized Armstrong due to her known affiliations with Scientology and her friendship with convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
Cedric‘s wife, Chrissie Carnell Bixler, was among several women who pursued rape charges against Masterson, with the alleged assault occurring in the early 2000s. Although Chrissie initiated legal action, it did not succeed. Cedric, who had once been involved with Scientology and was photographed with Armstrong in 2013, distanced himself from the Church of Scientology years ago, a decision also made by his wife.
Cedric has publicly accused Scientologists of running a prolonged intimidation campaign against him and Chrissie over their allegations. He has claimed that the organization attempted to silence them by tapping their phones, intercepting their digital communications, and sending “various thugs” after them. The couple also alleged that two of their dogs were poisoned as they became more outspoken about Masterson.
In September of the previous year, Masterson was convicted on two out of three rape counts (Chrissie‘s charge was not among those he was found guilty of) and sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Cedric and Chrissie have stated that Armstrong was a noted supporter and friend of Masterson, reportedly showing her support outside the courthouse during his trial. Cedric voiced his objections to Armstrong through social media channels associated with Dead Sara last year.
“I’m surprised none of you wrote a letter on Danny Mastersons behalf since your corny ass singer showed up to support him in the prelims. Remember Emily? 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. Remember when we did the purification run down Emily? Were you directed to safe point me cuz of what my wife knew? Why can’t you shut your mouth during a detox program where people are going through some rough shit but your corny ass is singing like an unsupervised child? Is it cuz you’re a born in scientologist that gets a pass? How do you reconcile the homophobia found in the teachings of LRH’s book dianetics? Do your fans know about your friend Danny Masterson? Your rapist friend.”
Following the announcement of Armstrong joining Linkin Park on September 5th, Cedric‘s comment was shared once again by the couple. Chrissie also posted an Instagram story that same day addressing Armstrong‘s new role, stating:
“@linkinpark ‘s new lead singer is a hardcore Scientologist who supporting convicted serial rapist 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 SAs on children and adults. Also is a true believer of LRH 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.”
Chrissie later followed up with a post stating:
“My husband toured with Soundgarden many times. I’ll never forget Chris Cornell telling a packed stadium that The Mars Volta was his favorite band. Chester Bennington and Linkin Park would always play At The Drive-In songs before going out on stage. Chester was a child SA survivor. Chester and Chris had a beautiful bond and I’m told shared a common goal to fight human and child trafficking. 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.”
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