Chris Cornell Fans Asked Not to Film at His Grave
Ever since he was laid to rest last May, Chris Cornell fans have been making pilgrimages to the Hollywood Forever cemetery in Los Angeles to visit his final resting place. While guests are welcome, the cemetery is unhappy that people are filming the site, and have sent a letter to his widow Vicky.
Last week, Cornell's management team tweeted, along with a scan of the letter, "We understand that some of Chris's fans wish to video their visits at Hollywood Forever, but we've had confirmation that it's against their policy. We'd like to thank everyone for their understanding."
In the letter, Noelle Berman, the Director of Private Estates for Hollywood Forever, said that, in order to maintain their Open Gate Policy, they "do not allow un-permitted filming anywhere on the Grounds." This is to "protect the privacy of all the families who have entrusted us to care for their loved ones." Those who are caught filming will be asked to stop, with the guarantee that "they will be treated kindly."
Berman, who pointed out that she wants fans to know that this policy is coming from her and not Vicky, noted that Cornell's fans "are always respectful of his space and leave sweet gifts and notes" and that she regularly sees fans visiting his grave. "It is beautiful to see and reminds me how special and adored your husband is," she added.
Cornell died on May 18 after hanging himself in a Detroit hotel room following a concert. He was cremated a few days later; his funeral was attended by his Soundgarden and Audioslave bandmates, as well as members of Foo Fighters, Jane's Addiction, Metallica and Nirvana.