Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin has paid an emotional tribute to her protege Lauren Bennett, who died at the age of 37. Antin, who formed the girl group GRL in 2012, described herself as 'shattered' and 'heartbroken' in a social media post following the announcement of Bennett's death.
In an Instagram video shared over the weekend, Antin wrote: 'I'm so heartbroken... shattered. My best friend, my family, my love... I will not go a day without missing our late night chats about creative ideas... laughing our asses off, sending funny videos to each other, over and over.... I miss you LB... I'll never let you go, you're with me forever.'
How Robin Antin Discovered Lauren Bennett
Antin first met Bennett in 2011 during auditions for a new lineup of the Pussycat Dolls. Bennett was selected alongside fellow future GRL member Paula van Oppen. The duo later joined Simone Battle, Emmalyn Estrada, and Natasha Slayton to form GRL under Antin's mentorship. The group became best known for hits such as 'Ugly Heart' and 'Lighthouse'.
Other Pussycat Dolls members also paid tribute. Carmit Bachar reposted GRL's official statement announcing Bennett's death, adding a broken heart emoji. Jessica Sutta commented: 'I'm so incredibly sorry for your loss. She was magnificent. Beautiful, talented and so incredibly sweet. May she rest in peace.'
GRL Bandmates Issue Heartbreaking Statement
The official statement confirming Bennett's death was posted on Instagram on 6 July. It read: 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren. Our hearts are broken and we cannot begin to 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 peacefully sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts.'
The statement was signed by the three surviving members of GRL: Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton, and Paula van Oppen. The group previously lost member Simone Battle, who was found dead at her home in West Hollywood in 2014. Her death was ruled a suicide, and the band's song 'Lighthouse' was written as a tribute to her.
Details of Lauren Bennett's Death
Although Bennett's death was announced in July, she died in May. The singer, who also appeared on LMFAO's 'Party Rock Anthem', was pronounced dead after police responded to a welfare concern at her home. Kent Police confirmed: 'Kent Police was called to an address in Meopham at about 2pm on Friday 29 May 2026 following concerns for the welfare of a person. Officers attended, along with SECAMB and a woman in her 30s was pronounced deceased. The death is not being treated as suspicious and a report has been prepared for the coroner.'
