For years, she felt caught between who she was and who the world expected her to be. The weight of that struggle became impossible to ignore, leading to a life-changing decision. When she finally shared their truth, the response was immediate, drawing both support and criticism.
On Valentine’s Day 2025, the child of a world-famous musician shared a deeply personal message reflecting on her journey of self-acceptance. In the post, she revealed that after years of trying to conform to expectations, she had embraced her true identity. It was a moment she had spent a long time preparing for.
Her announcement detailed when she began her transition and the steps she took to live authentically. Despite the mixed responses, she made it clear that she was ready to move forward with confidence, no longer hiding who she was.
Her famous dad performs during the last stop of the Projekt Revolution Tour at the Thomas and Mack Center on February 24, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
Her Announcement and Transition
On February 14, 2025, a public figure took to Instagram, to announce that she is a transgender woman. In the post, she reflected on the years she spent struggling with her identity, explaining how she had tried to live as someone she was not.
After much self-reflection, she decided to embrace her true self and, in August 2024, began hormone replacement therapy—a step she described as the best decision of her life. She expressed deep gratitude for the support she received from family and friends.
“Especially Mom, you’ve always unconditionally loved me. I’m so blessed to be your child! I love you to the moon and back!” she wrote. She ended her post with a message of self-acceptance, emphasizing that she was ready to live openly and proudly, “This is why I’m choosing to no longer hide who I am.”
Growing Up as a Renowned Musician’s Child
In her announcement, she acknowledged that her journey had not been easy, but having people who accepted her made all the difference. Among those who shaped her life was her father, whose presence left a lasting impact.
Born in April 2002, Draven is the daughter of the late Linkin Park frontman. She grew up surrounded by music and often accompanied her father on tour. One of her earliest memories was traveling to Australia with her siblings while her father performed.
Although he had a demanding career, he always made time for family, taking them on outings to the zoo and the beach. Draven also recalled a special moment during one of her dad’s soundchecks.
While she stood alone in the empty venue, watching him rehearse, he tossed his drumsticks to her, letting her catch them—something she had always wanted to do.
When he wasn’t touring, the famous singer enjoyed spending time with his children. He often took Draven and her younger brother, Tyler, rock climbing, making it a regular family activity.
His career made him one of the most recognizable figures in rock music, but to Draven, he was simply her father. His influence, both as a musician and as a parent, remained a strong presence in her life.
Her Dad: A Grammy-Winning Music Icon
Her father was one of the most influential rock musicians of his time. As the lead singer of Linkin Park, he helped define a generation with his powerful voice and emotionally raw lyrics. Over the course of his career, he won two Grammy Awards and earned six nominations.
Chester Bennington poses backstage during the 44th Annual Grammy Awards on February 27, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
His success with Linkin Park began in the early 2000s, with albums like “Hybrid Theory” and “Meteora” propelling the band to worldwide fame. Songs such as “In the End” and “Numb” became anthems, known for their mix of rock and electronic elements.
Chester Bennington performs during the last stop of the Projekt Revolution Tour on February 24, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
His distinct vocal style—seamlessly transitioning from melodic singing to intense screams—set him apart in the industry. Despite his demanding career, he remained dedicated to his family.
Linkin Park with their award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards on February 8, 2006 | Source: Getty Images
His children were an important part of his life, and he made efforts to ensure they remained close, even as they grew up in different households.
His last will, filed in 2017, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong bonds between his six children. He thoughtfully set aside funds to cover travel expenses so they could continue to spend time together. His legacy extends beyond music.
Chester Bennington and his son attend the Los Angeles Lakers game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 28, 2008 | Source: Getty Images
His openness about personal struggles resonated with fans, and after his passing in 2017, his influence continued through the work of his family and supporters. Draven, along with her siblings, has carried Chester Bennington’s memory forward in different ways.
Chester Bennington, wife and kids arrive at Nickelodeon’s 2009 Kids’ Choice Awards on March 28, 2009 | Source: Getty Images
Family Bonds and Sibling Support
Chester’s six children came from different relationships, but he made it a priority to keep them connected. His will included specific instructions to ensure they remained in each other’s lives, setting aside funds to cover travel expenses for visits.
Chester Bennington, wife Talinda Bentley and children at Nickelodeon’s 22nd Annual Kid’s Choice Awards on March 28, 2009 | Source: Getty Images
After his passing in 2017, his family continued to honor that commitment, maintaining strong relationships despite living in different households. Draven is the only child from Chester’s marriage to his first wife, Samantha Marie Olit.
Chester Bennington and Samantha Marie Olit, pictured on May 3, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
Chester Bennington and his ex-wife Samantha on May 13, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
She has five half-siblings: Isaiah and Jaime, from Chester’s previous relationship with Elka Brand, and Tyler, Lily, and Lila, from his marriage to Talinda Bennington. Over the years, the siblings have publicly shared memories of their father.
Jaime, who did not meet Chester until he was six years old, has reflected on their relationship and the time they spent together. In 2024, he posted about the significance of revisiting old photos to keep his father’s memory alive.
Meanwhile, Tyler, who is 18, has used his platform to shut down conspiracy theories surrounding Chester’s death, calling them disrespectful and harmful.
Musician Chester Bennington and son Tyler Lee Bennington on May 30, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Draven’s twin half-sisters, Lily and Lila, have also grown up in the public eye. In 2023, their mother, Talinda, celebrated their academic achievements, sharing photos from their early school years through their graduation.
That same sense of support was evident when Draven came out publicly. While her announcement drew mixed reactions, some fans reassured and encouraged her. In her post, she had already made it clear that she values the support of those who accept her for who she is.
Public Reaction to Draven’s Announcement
Draven’s supporters left comments such as, “Your father would be proud of you for following your heart! Wishing you tons of love and acceptance,” “Good luck and congratulations on being true to yourself” and “May she have a fruitful life and journey, Chester is Proud no matter what.”
However, not all responses were positive. Some critics expressed disapproval, with remarks such as, “His dad would have been so disappointed,” and, “Oh dear, he needs some help.” Others called the announcement “so sad,” reflecting the divide in public opinion on transgender issues.
As the 22-year-old Draven moves forward, the responses to her coming out highlight both the support and challenges that come with sharing personal milestones in the public eye.
