Draven Bennington, the cherished child of the late Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, who tragically took his own life in 2017, is embarking on a fresh journey in life. On Valentine's Day, February 14th, the 22-year-old shared a heartfelt Instagram post revealing their transition journey, having "come out as transgender" the previous year. In a poignant note, Draven highlighted this as "the perfect moment to lavish love upon myself."
"For an extended period, I attempted to mold myself into someone I intrinsically wasn't," Draven poured out in the post. "Ignoring my true self worked temporarily, but the constant dilemma between seeking happiness and settling for complacency was a fork in the road I couldn't continually traverse."
"Last August, I chose the path of genuine joy and authenticity," continued the aspiring TV personality. "I embraced my transgender identity and commenced hormone replacement therapy, a life-altering decision that stands as the best I've ever made."
Draven expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from their loved ones, especially their mother, Samantha Bennington. "To each of you who have showered me with love, respect, and acceptance, seeing me for my true self—I cherish you," they wrote.
"The love and encouragement I've received have fortified my capacity to love myself. That's why I've decided to no longer conceal my authentic self. Love, in all its forms, is pure and beautiful," concluded the budding musician, appending, "Happy Valentine's Day."
In the Paramount+ series 'Family Legacy,' Draven had previously opened up about the thrill of touring with their father's rock band, sharing how family bonding time flourished during the band's off days. "One of our favorite shared adventures was rock climbing. My younger brother, Tyler, and I would often hit Hangar 18 for an exhilarating climb. It was a cherished bond we shared," Draven recounted.
Draven's family tapestry includes brother Tyler, 18, and twin sisters Lily and Lila, 13, whom Chester welcomed with his wife Talinda Bennington. Additionally, they have older brothers Jamie, 28, and Isaiah, 27, from Chester's previous relationship with Elka Brand. "Our bond has always been strong," Draven affirmed. "Though I share a particularly close tie with my younger siblings due to our proximity in age, each one holds a special place in my heart."
Over the years, Draven has dipped their toes into the worlds of fashion and music. They expressed admiration for their father's penchant for bespoke customizations, making pieces uniquely his own. Moreover, Linkin Park's albums, notably 2004's 'Collision Course,' have served as a muse for Draven's musical endeavors. "That album has undoubtedly influenced my musical style the most. But witnessing my dad's joy in finding the perfect tune has also been inspiring. When I first started, it was purely for fun, a solo endeavor," Draven reflected.
