Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington’s child Draven has publicly come out as transgender.
The 22-year-old, whose famous father died by suicide in 2017, shared their major life update in an Instagram message 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.
“For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside,” they said. “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 revealed that in August 2024 they “decided to take the path of happiness and being true to myself” by coming out as transgender. They said they “started hormone replacement therapy, and it has been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.”
“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.”
Draven specifically thanked their mom, Samantha Bennington, writing, “You’ve always unconditionally loved me. I’m so blessed to be your child! I love you to the moon and back!”
“With all the support and love I’ve received, I’ve built the strength to love myself,” Draven went on. “This is why I’m choosing to no longer hide who I am. Love is love. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
Samantha, who was married to Chester from 1996 to 2005, showed support for their child in the comments section.
“I’m so proud of you. I love you with all my heart and soul,” she told Draven. “You’re my favorite human on the planet. I just want you happy and healthy forever and always.😍.”
Chester had six children, including Draven.
The “Numb” singer shared son Tyler, 18, and twin daughters Lily and Lila, 13, with his second wife, Talinda Bentley. He was also dad to sons Jamie, 28, and Isaiah, 27, from his relationship with ex Elka Brand.
Draven opened up about their bond with their siblings in an interview with People in 2023.
“We’ve always had a great bond,” said Draven. “I definitely have a closer bond with my younger siblings, just because we’re closer in age, but they’re all great.”
Draven, who has followed in Chester’s footsteps by becoming a musician, said they want to one day match the impact that the late singer had on fans.
“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.”
