The upcoming “reimagined” Step Up series on Starz has just announced that Christina Milian will be taking on the role of Collette, Naya Rivera’s role at the time of her death.
TVLine reports that Milian is “so excited to join the Step Up family.” In a statement, Milian states that she knows she has “massive shoes to fill. Naya was incredible. I hope to honor Naya, her family, friends and fans with a great performance.”
Sources told TVLine that recasting the role involved some “careful consideration” because Rivera’s role was so central to the series. The YouTube series Step Up: High Water was cancelled after two seasons due to the platform moving away from original programming and Starz stepped in to save the series.
“There is no replacing Naya — let’s get that straight,” says series regular and co-star Ne-Yo, in a statement he released. “Her spirit lives on in our memories and every part of what this show is and will be. Christina has big shoes to fill and she knows it, which speaks to her poise and respect as a person and an artist. I’m more than certain of her ability to bring an energy and light to this character that Naya’s fans as well as the rest of the world will love. We’ve welcomed Christina with absolute open arms and have rallied around her with love and support. I’m excited and can’t wait for the world to see this!”
Milian joins a cast that includes returning series regulars Ne-Yo (Sage Odom), Faizon Love (Uncle Al), Jade Chynoweth (Odalie), Carlito Olivero (Davis), Terrence Green (Rigo), Eric Graise (King), and Kendra Oyesanya (Poppy).
The series is currently in production.