Home / Arts and Entertainment / Naya Rivera's Son Honors Her Legacy Six Years Later
Naya Rivera's Son Honors Her Legacy Six Years Later
11 Jul
Summary
- Josey plays piano, carrying on his mother's musical passion.
- A 'Mommy Garden' in their backyard keeps Naya's memory alive.
- Josey's final memory of his mother involves her saving him.
Six years have passed since the tragic accidental drowning of "Glee" star Naya Rivera at age 33. Her ex-husband, Ryan Dorsey, shared how their son, Josey, keeps her memory alive. Josey, now being raised by Dorsey and Rivera's family, has taken up piano lessons, a musical pursuit his mother once abandoned but later regretted.
Dorsey revealed that he and Josey maintain a "Mommy Garden" in their backyard, filled with perennial flowers. Josey actively tends to this garden, a touching way to honor his mother. He also exhibits mannerisms and laughter reminiscent of Rivera, frequently reminding Dorsey of her.
Rivera's heroic final act was saving Josey during a boat excursion on California's Lake Piru. Josey recounted how his mother lifted him back onto the boat before she disappeared beneath the water. This memory, along with Josey's hesitation about a spider on a life raft rope, continues to deeply affect Dorsey.
Rivera's impact extended beyond her role as Santana Lopez on "Glee." The character's storyline with Brittany Pierce became a significant LGBTQ+ representation on television. Rivera herself acknowledged the profound impact her role had on viewers, creating a dedicated fan base.
