Draven Bennington, the child of the late rock icon Chester Bennington, has courageously announced their journey as a transgender individual.
In a heartfelt Valentine?s Day message shared on Instagram on February 14, Draven, now 22 years old, disclosed that they ?came out as transgender? in 2024 and have embarked on a significant transition process. This announcement has been a pivotal moment in Draven’s life, marking a new chapter filled with authenticity and self-discovery.
Draven expressed their feelings in a beautifully articulated note: ?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.? They reflected on their journey, sharing, ?For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn?t on the inside.? This poignant revelation highlights the emotional struggle many face when reconciling their true identity with societal expectations.
August 2024 marked a transformative milestone for Draven, as they made the empowering choice to come out as transgender and initiate hormone replacement therapy. In their own words, ?It has been the best decision I?ve ever made in my life,? showcasing the immense positivity and relief this transition has brought to them. This journey underscores the importance of embracing one?s true self and the transformative power of acceptance.
Following their announcement, Draven has been met with overwhelming support from friends and family, including their mother, Samantha Bennington. This strong network of support has been crucial in Draven?s journey, demonstrating the importance of love and acceptance in the lives of transgender individuals.
Draven expressed immense gratitude, stating, ?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.? They emphasized that the love and encouragement they have received have empowered them to embrace their identity fully. ?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 concluded, encapsulating the essence of self-love and acceptance.
Samantha Bennington, who was married to Chester from 1996 until 2005, publicly shared her pride and love for Draven in the comments of the post. Her heartfelt message read, ?I?m so proud of you. I love you with all my heart and soul. You?re my favorite human on the planet. I just want you happy and healthy forever and always.? This expression of maternal love highlights the significance of familial support in the journey of self-discovery.
The late Chester Bennington tragically passed away by suicide in July 2017 at the age of 41, after battling drug and alcohol addiction throughout his life. He is survived by Draven, his sons Tyler, 18, and twin daughters Lily and Lila, 13, with his second wife Talinda Bentley, as well as his older sons Jamie, 28, and Isaiah, 27, from a previous relationship with Elka Brand. Chester’s legacy continues to live on through his music and the lives he touched.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Draven is pursuing a career in music and hopes to create a lasting impact on fans, much like Chester did. In a 2023 interview with People, Draven shared, ?Every time I hear somebody?s story, telling how much my dad?s music impacted their life, I just think it?s really beautiful.? This aspiration reflects the deep connection between art and personal experience, emphasizing how music can resonate and inspire across generations.
To explore Draven?s heartfelt Valentine?s Day post, see the full message on Instagram below.
