Chester Bennington's child Draven, 22, comes out as transgender in emotional statement
Former Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington's child Draven shared a heartfelt letter to her Instagram followers announcing her transition.
Draven is Chester's only child with his first wife Samantha Olit, with the pair marrying in 1996 before divorcing nine years later in 2005.
The 22-year-old posted a letter to Instagram on Valentine's Day ( February 14) where she shared that she had come out last year as transgender.
"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 a perfect time to show some love to myself." the letter started.
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"For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside. 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.
"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."
Her post continued: "I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as having such supportive family and friends. 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.
"Especially Mom, 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. This is why I'm choosing to no longer hide who I am. Love is love. Happy Valentine's Day."
She also responded in the comments that she would be keeping the name Draven, as it was 'androgynous enough for me to keep it', further revealing that her mom 'chose the best name' for her.
Draven's mother wrote in the comments in support of Draven, writing: "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."
And many other commenters were also quick to share their support, with one person writing: "Beautifully written! Happy Vday! Never stop loving yourself, you beautiful human. Much love & warmth."
Another said: "I’m so happy for you! It takes so much courage to embrace who you are, and that you feel supported. You deserve to be surrounded by love and acceptance," while a third commented that they were 'thrilled' for her to 'be living your life as your most authentic and valuable self'.
Chester passed away in 2017 at age 41, with Draven revealing to PEOPLE in 2023 that she finds it 'beautiful' when someone mentions how much the star's music 'impacted their lives', adding: "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."
Topics: Transgender, LGBTQ, Celebrity
Joe Yates