Former Glee star Naya Rivera was found dead today, five days after her disappearance. The Puerto Rican, African American, and German actress was born in Valencia, California, on January 12, 1987, and got into show business at an early age. She got her first TV role in The Royal Family at just four years old and landed roles on Family Matters, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Baywatch, and Sinbad all before turning 10. However, Rivera was best known for her role on Glee as Santana. She was revered for her powerful singing voice and truthfully portraying her character's pivotal and emotional journey of coming out as gay.
Rivera went missing on July 8th during a boat ride with her son. Before the incident, she had posted a picture of her and her 4-year-old with the caption, "just the two of us." Rivera rented a boat and the two sailed across Lake Piru to spend a mother-son day together. However, Rivera's son was found alone on the boat that afternoon with Rivera nowhere in site. When questioned by police, he explained that he and his mother had gone swimming. He remembers Rivera lifting him onto the boat. When he looked behind him, he saw her disappear underneath the water's surface.
After five days of poor conditions and unsuccessful search attempts, Rivera's body was found at the bottom of Lake Piru. According to Variety, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the body found was Rivera's at a press conference earlier today. During the conference, Sheriff Bill Ayub reported that there were no signs of suicide or foul play. Instead, officers believe that the 33-year-old had drowned after mustering the last bit of her energy to lift her son onto the boat and save him.
The cast of Glee has been following the story and responding in their own ways. Lea Michele, whom Rivera has accused of bullying, deleted her Twitter just one day ago. However, other stars of the show are using social media to mourn her death. Chris Colfer, who played Kurt Rivera, wrote a heartfelt tribute to his former co-star on Instagram while Jane Lynch also expressed her sentiment on Twitter. As far as family goes, Rivera is survived by Yolanda Rivera and George Rivera; younger brother Mychal, an NFL player; sister Nickayla, a model; and her son Josey Hollis Dorsey.
Rivera's passing is nothing short of devastating. Not only did she perform a beautiful rendition of "If I Die Young" on Glee, but her body was discovered on the 7th anniversary of her Glee co-star Cory Monteith's passing. Rivera is the 3rd former Glee cast member to pass away at a devastatingly young age. Monteith, who played Finn, had passed from a drug overdose at 31, and Mark Salling, who played Puck, committed suicide at 35. However, Rivera will be remembered forever as a hero as she spent her last breath saving her son's life. She will be deeply missed by her loved ones, Glee cast, and all who hear her story. She leaves behind a legacy of talent and bravery.
Source: Variety
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