Late Chester Bennington's child Draven, 22, comes out as transgender: 'Choosing to no longer hide'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Late Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington's child, Draven Sebastian Bennington, has shared that she is now living as her true self, having transitioned into her transgender identity after months of hormone replacement therapy. 

In an emotional announcement, Draven opened up about the long journey of self-discovery, revealing that she had been contemplating this decision for some time before finally choosing to embrace her authentic identity. 

Describing the transformation as her "path of happiness," Draven proudly declared it "the best decision" she's ever made, expressing gratitude for the support she's received along the way.

Draven Sebastian embraces a new chapter in her life 

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on February 15, just after Valentine’s Day, Draven Sebastian Bennington, the child of Chester Bennington, opened up about embracing a new chapter in her life.

She began by reflecting on the meaning of love, writing, "As today is a day to celebrate love and what love truly means whether it's for a partner, family, or ourselves," before sharing a deeply personal revelation.

Draven expressed how, for years, she had tried to be someone she wasn’t, saying, "I thought, it would be the perfect time to show some love to myself. For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside."

Using she/her pronouns after her transition, Draven continued, "Ignoring it worked for a while, but continuously coming to the crossroads of being happy or being complacent was one I couldn’t keep choosing."

She then shared when she began her transformation, revealing, "In August of last year. I decided to take the path of happiness and being true to myself. I came out as transgender and started hormone replacement therapy, and it has been the best decision I've ever made in my life.."

Draven expressed immense gratitude for the transformation and the support she’s received, saying, "I do have to say to say. I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as having such supportive family and friends."

She made sure to thank everyone who has shown her love and respect, adding, "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."

She also wrote a special note for her mother, who has supported her through this journey.  "Especially Mom, you've always unconditionally loved me. I'm so blessed to be your child! I love to the moon and back! With all the support and love i've received," she said.

The post concluded with Draven reflecting on her self-love. "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," she added.

In response to Draven’s post, her mother Samantha Bennington shared a heartfelt comment in the section. "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😍," she wrote.

Draven Sebastian Bennington hailed as a 'beautiful human'

Within just one day of posting on Instagram, Chester Bennington's child Draven Sebastian Bennington’s message received over 1,000 likes and countless comments.

One user wrote, "I am proud of you. What name should we call you? ❤️" To which, Draven replied, "I’m still going by Draven, I feel it’s androgynous enough for me to keep it ☺️."

Another commented, "True LP fans would know that your dad would have supported you no matter what. Block the haters. Sending you much love from a random fan and fellow trans person. 🏳️‍⚧️"

One person praised, "Beautifully written! Happy Vday! Never stop loving yourself, you beautiful human. Much love & warmth ❤️🫂." 

Another fan remarked, "Congrats on making the change you wanted! 🎉 Exciting times ahead! 😊 What name should I call you now?"

One individual declared, "You're so right.So beautifully written. Be who you are, you are unique and special. Happy Valentine's day ❤️❤️❤️" 

Another remarked, "My sister for life. i am so happy you are finally able to be your true authentic self. the future aint ready for us draven. keep being you, because YOU, is beautiful. i am so proud of you. love you dra! 🕺❤️" 

Another added, "I’m so proud of you girl. i came out trans when i was in my mid teens, i cant wait to see your journey!"  One fan advised, "Be yourself your father would be proud of you 🔥❤️."

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