Draven Bennington, Linkin Park’s Son, Comes Out as Transgender
Draven Bennington, the son of the late Linkin Park lead singer Chester Bennington, recently announced that he identifies as a woman and is transitioning.
Previously, Draven was identified using male pronouns, but her Instagram bio now includes female pronouns such as ‘she/her.’
Chester greeted Draven alongside his former spouse, Samantha Olit, who was his wife from 1996 up until their separation in 2005.
In 2017, the beloved rock musician took his life by hanging at the tender age of 41. To this day, he is fondly remembered by his loved ones, among them being Draven.
On this coming Friday, Draven revealed the initiation of their gender transition journey which commenced last August, encompassing hormone replacement treatment.
In light of today being all about expressing love and understanding its essence – be it for a loved one, relatives, or oneself – she decided this moment was ideal for giving herself some much-deserved love.
For quite some time, I’ve been striving to emulate a person that didn’t align with my authentic self. Pretending worked temporarily, but eventually, I found myself repeatedly facing a choice between genuine happiness and comfortable complacency – a dilemma I could no longer keep repeating.
Last August, Draven chose the route of genuine happiness and self-expression by embracing his transgender identity. He initiated hormone replacement therapy, a choice that he considers the most rewarding decision he’s ever made in his lifetime.
The showbiz legacy carries on: “I must admit, I feel incredibly fortunate to be in this position, with a family and friends who are exceptionally supportive.
Draven continued, expressing that he adores everyone who has given him love, respect, and recognized his true self.
Addressing Samantha directly, I express, “You’ve consistently shown an unwavering, selfless love towards me, Mom. I feel incredibly fortunate to be your child. My affection for you extends beyond the bounds of our universe.
As a follower deeply appreciative of your guidance, I want to echo your sentiments: After experiencing an abundance of support and affection, I’ve found the resolve to embrace myself wholeheartedly. Consequently, I decide to step out of the shadows and be true to who I am. Love, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated. Here’s wishing a joyous Valentine’s Day to one and all!
Beneath the main text, an overwhelming number of goodwill messages from fans poured in. However, Samantha’s response was notably distinct.
Good wishes from fans filled up the comments section below the message – but it was Samantha’s reaction that really stood out.
In a burst of enthusiasm, I can’t help but express my immense pride in you! From the deepest chambers of my heart and soul, I adore you beyond measure. Among all the incredible beings inhabiting our world, you hold a special place – you are my absolute favorite human on this planet. My fervent wish is for your unending happiness and perfect health, forever and always.
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In a 2017 conversation on Twitter about the debate surrounding gender-neutral restrooms, Chester himself voiced his thoughts on transgender matters.
In response to the topic of a ‘trans bathroom law,’ Chester expressed his viewpoint, stating, “I believe that all bathrooms ought to be designed as unisex facilities. For those with children, a family restroom could serve as an alternative solution.
Despite being an only child born to Chester and Samantha, Draven took on the role of a father figure for five kids from different relationships.
Together with his second spouse, the ex-Playboy model Talinda Bentley, he has an 18-year-old son named Tyler and 13-year-old twin girls, Lily and Lila.
In simpler terms, he had a 28-year-old son named Jamie with his former partner Elka Brand, and later, he took on the role of father to Elka’s 27-year-old son Isaiah, who was born in another relationship.
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2025-02-16 07:03