Jared Leto Pays Tribute To Chester Bennington At MTV VMAs [VIDEO]

Jared Leto paid tribute to the late leader of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington, who took his own life last month.

JARED LETO PAYS TRIBUTE TO CHESTER BENNINGTON AT MTV VMAS

Leto introduced a clip of Bennington and shared some words about the singer. “Chester was my friend, as he was to so many, and witnessing his life taught me important things, especially about working relentlessly, pursuing dreams, and being kind and caring while doing it,” the singer turned actor said on stage. “When I think about him, Chester, I see his face, which was always smiling. I think about his heart, which he wore on his sleeve,” he continued. “I think about his wife. I think about his family, I think about his band, who were really his brothers. And I remember his voice, at once ferocious and delicate. That voice will live forever.” Then, turning to fans who may be facing a dark point in their lives, Leto said, “if there is anyone out there who is watching this tonight who feels like there is no hope, hear me now: You are not alone. There is always a way forward. Reach out, share your thoughts do not give up, and I promise you this, the absolute biggest breakthroughs in life, lie just beyond the darkest days.”

MTV then played a clip of Linkin Park performing at the 2010 VMAs in Los Angeles’ Griffith Observatory, when they played “The Catalyst” on a platform overlooking the city. Leto then performed “Walk on Water” with his band Thirty Seconds to Mars and Travis Scott.

Bennington was found dead July 20, and shortly after the LA County coroner’s office declared the 41-year-old’s death a suicide.

Leto also mentioned the late Chris Cornell, singer of Soundgarden and Audioslave, who also took his own life earlier this summer. “They were close friends with one another, Chester even singing a cover of the classic “Hallelujah” at Chris’ funeral,” Leto said. “Chester said of Chris, your voice was joy and pain and anguish and forgiveness, love and heartache, all wrapped up into one. Just weeks later, Chester himself was gone. Chester was my friend, as he was to so many, and witnessing his life taught me important things. Especially about worrying relentlessly, pursing dreams, and being kind and caring while doing it.”