Understanding the grief and health concerns behind celebrity deaths
The death of a celebrity often triggers collective mourning and, for some, serious health concerns. Here’s why it happens and how to take care of yourself.
“Party Rock Anthem” singer Lauren Bennett has died.
The musician died at the age of 36 in England on May 29, just one month before his birthday, according to Kent Coroner and Medway Coroner records obtained by USA TODAY. The news was officially announced by her former band GRL in a heartfelt statement posted on their official Instagram page on Monday, June 6th.
“We are so sorry to announce the passing of our beloved Lauren,” it read. “Our hearts are broken and words cannot express how much she meant to us.
“We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us. Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved. Rest in peace, sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts. Your GRL, Em, Tash, and P,” he concluded, naming members Emmaline Estrada, Natasha Slayton, and Paula Van Oppen.
Bennett’s cause of death remains unknown. An inquest into the circumstances of her death is scheduled for October, according to records from Kent Coroner and Medway Coroner.
USA TODAY has reached out to Bennett’s representatives for comment.
In 2010, Bennett began a solo career that included collaborations with artists such as CeeLo Green and will.i.am. She is best known for her feature on LMFAO’s 2011 chart-topping song “Party Rock Anthem,” which spent six weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time.
Bennett was born on June 24, 1989 in Meopham, England. Her career began in 2007 when she formed Paradiso Girls when she was only 18 years old. They released their debut single “Patrón Tequila” in 2009, and she has since released music on her own.
Bennett later joined GRL and worked on songs such as “Vacation,” “Wild Wild Love” with Pitbull, and “Ugly Heart.” In 2014, group member Simone Battle died by suicide at the age of 25.
GRL later released a tribute song called “Lighthouse” in Battle’s honor and in partnership with the mental health support GRL Gives an Hour campaign, but the band ultimately disbanded in 2015.
Most recently, Bennett released the songs “Reality” and “Hurricane” on his own, and has also reunited with GRL alumni for various projects over the years.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 or chat online at any time of the day or night. The Crisis Text Line also provides free 24/7 confidential support via text message when people in crisis dial 741741.
