Draven Sebastian Bennington, offspring of the late rock icon Chester Bennington, has bravely come out as transgender in a heartfelt Instagram post. Draven expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support received from family and friends.

On Valentine’s Day, Draven shared: “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. For a long time, I tried to be someone, someone I truly wasn’t on the inside.

“Ignoring it worked for awhile, but continuously coming to the crossroads of being happy or being complacent was one I couldn’t keep crossing.”

Draven continued, revealing the journey towards authenticity: “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.

“I do have to say I am very blessed to be able to do this, as well as have 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 love and support I 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.”

Draven, the child of late Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington, has publicly embraced her transgender identity, sharing a heartfelt post adorned with heart emojis and the transgender flag. In her bio, she proudly displays her pronouns (she/her).

Responding to Draven’s revelation, her mother and Chester’s ex-wife expressed her love, commenting: “Love you to the moon and back.”

The music world was shaken by Chester’s suicide in July 2017, which led to his bandmates from Linkin Park stepping out of the spotlight. However, last year saw band members Rob Bourdon, Brad Delson, Mike Shinoda, Dave Farrell, and Joe Hahn make a comeback with Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist, reports the Mirror US.

Armstrong’s arrival stirred some controversy, not so much for the gender change at the helm but rather due to her alleged past ties to Scientology and supposed support of Danny Masterson, who faced rape convictions.