Lauren Bennett, known for her work on LMFAO's hit "Party Rock Anthem" and as a member of the girl group G.R.L., died on May 29 in Meopham, Kent, England. She was 36.
Her father, Richard Bennett, shared on social media that his daughter experienced a "severe reaction" to a prescription medication months before her death. He expressed "deep disappointment" with the UK's National Health Service (NHS), alleging that medical professionals and services failed to treat her appropriately during her time of need. While the family does not suspect foul play, they believe her care was inadequate.
Bennett was a founding member of G.R.L., which formed in 2014. The group released popular songs including "Ugly Heart" and performed with artists like Pitbull. Before joining G.R.L., Bennett gained recognition for her part in the 2011 song "Party Rock Anthem," which became a global dance hit and has garnered over two billion views on YouTube.
"She was deeply loved by all who knew her and made a lasting impact on countless lives through her music, her kindness, and the way she made people feel," Richard Bennett wrote of his daughter. He added that her legacy would continue through her daughter and her music.
G.R.L. confirmed Bennett's death on Instagram, stating, "Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us." The group remembered her for her "beautiful spirit" and said she would be "deeply missed and forever loved."
An inquest into Bennett's death has been scheduled for October. The circumstances surrounding her death were not immediately available beyond her father's statements regarding her reaction to medication and subsequent alleged inadequate care.