Jared Leto pays tribute to Chester Bennington at MTV VMAs

Aug. 28 (UPI) -- Jared Leto paid tribute to Chester Bennington Sunday during the MTV Video Music Awards as he introduced a clip featuring the late singer's band, Linkin Park.

"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 and actor said onstage during the event.

"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," Leto said before reaching out to viewers who may be going through dark times of their own. "You are not alone. There is always a way forward."

MTV then aired a Linkin Park performance from the 2010 VMAs at the Los Angeles' Griffith Observatory. The clip featured the band performing "The Catalyst" atop a high platform overlooking the city.

Leto was at the VMAs with his band Thirty Seconds to Mars who performed "Walk on Water" with Travis Scott.

Bennington was discovered dead on July 20 inside his residence at Palos Verdes Estates in Los Angeles County. The Los Angeles County coroner's office confirmed that the 41-year-old hanged himself from a bedroom door.

Leto at the time remembered Bennington on social media writing, "My heart goes out to his family, friends, band and fans. A tragic loss of an absolute legend. We will miss you."