Draven Bennington, the child of late Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington, has publicly come out as transgender. The 22-year-old made the announcement in a heartfelt Instagram post on Valentine’s Day.
“As today is a day to celebrate love and what love truly means, whether it’s for a partner, family, or ourselves, I thought it would be the perfect time to show some love to myself,” Draven wrote. The post marked a significant moment in Draven’s journey and also detailed their personal struggles and decision to embrace their true identity.
“For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside,” they wrote. “Ignoring it worked for a while, but continuously coming to the crossroads of being happy or being complacent was one I couldn’t keep crossing.”
Draven explained that in August 2024, they made the life-changing decision to transition and begin hormone replacement therapy. “It has been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life,” Draven said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and support they’ve received.
“I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as having very supportive family and friends,” Draven continued. “I love each and every one of you who have shown me nothing but love and respect and see me for who I truly am.”
In the post, Draven specifically thanked their mother, Samantha Bennington, for her unwavering support. “You’ve always unconditionally loved me. I’m so blessed to be your child! I love you to the moon and back!” Draven wrote.
The message ended with a statement: “With all the support and love I’ve received, I’ve built the strength to love myself. This is why I’m choosing to no longer hide who I am. Love is love. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
In an interview with People in 2023, Draven spoke about the bond they share with their siblings. “We’ve always had a great bond. I definitely have a closer bond with my younger siblings, just because we’re closer in age, but they’re all great,” Draven said.
Draven, who is also a musician like their late father, expressed their desire to make an impact similar to Chester’s. “Every time I hear somebody’s story, telling like how much my dad’s music impacted their life, I just think it’s really beautiful,” Draven shared. “I think that’s really sweet how something that he was just doing as a passion, what he loved, had that effect on so many people.”
Chester Bennington, who tragically passed away in 2017, is survived by six children, including Draven. His other children are Tyler, 18, and twin daughters Lily and Lila, 13, with his second wife, Talinda Bentley, and sons Jamie, 28, and Isaiah, 27, from his relationship with ex-partner Elka Brand.
