Naya Rivera’s Ex Gives Update on How Their Son is Following in Mother’s Footsteps

Five years after the tragic death of Naya Rivera, her ex, Ryan Dorsey is giving an update about their son, Josey. Their son, who was 4 at the moment of Rivera’s death, was with his mom out on a pontoon boat in Lake Piru, California when she drowned after the two went swimming. Authorities ruled her death an accident and determined she was able to save her son’s life by getting him back on the boat.

In an interview with People, Dorsey shared that the two moved to Virginia after the pandemic, calling it “A totally different place. There’s not much to do, but it feels safe.” He also reflected on how his son is following in his mother’s footsteps, having appeared in a couple of plays. “He’s a natural,” Dorsey said, but added that he’s not “begging to be an actor,” so Dorsey is exposing him to different things like playing instruments and sports so he can figure out what he likes.

“Being creative is definitely in his blood,” he said, also sharing that Josey has watched Glee, even though Dorsey himself cannot. “His mom will live forever,” in her work, Dorsey said, calling that a “silver lining,” despite how hard things have been. And though the tragedy that took his mother will always be a defining moment, Dorsey also shared that his son wants “a brother” and a “stepmom,” something that’s been complicated for him, as being a full-time father hasn’t left him much time to meet women, much less get a girlfriend.

Dorsey also revealed some of his son’s memories of the last moments with Rivera, saying, “It just rocks my world that he had to witness her last moments.” But if his interview leaves us with one lasting impression, it’s this one: Naya Rivera and her legacy will live on in her son and all the people who remember her. 

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Watch the full interview with Naya Rivera’s ex-husband Ryan Dorsey below.