Draven Bennington, the 22-year-old child of late Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington, has publicly come out as transgender. She made the announcement in an Instagram post on Valentine’s Day, sharing her journey and expressing gratitude for the support she has received.
“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.
In the post, she revealed that she began her transition and hormone replacement therapy in August 2024. Describing it as “the best decision I’ve ever made in my life,” Draven expressed appreciation for the support from her family and friends.
“I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as having very supportive family and friends,” she wrote. “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 her mother, Samantha Bennington, for her unconditional support. “You’ve always unconditionally loved me. I’m so blessed to be your child! I love you to the moon and back!”
She concluded the message by affirming her identity. “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.”
Draven has previously spoken about her close bond with her siblings. In a 2023 interview, she shared, “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.”
Following in her father’s musical footsteps, Draven has expressed a desire to make a meaningful impact. “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,” she said. “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 died in 2017, is survived by six children, including Draven. His other children include Tyler, 18, and twin daughters Lily and Lila, 13, with his second wife, Talinda Bentley, as well as sons Jamie, 28, and Isaiah, 27, from his relationship with ex-partner Elka Brand.
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