Ryan Dorsey holding his son Josey Hollis Dorsey
Celebrity

Inside Naya Rivera's Lasting Legacy Through Her Son Josey Hollis Dorsey

The late Glee star shared her only child with ex-husband Ryan Dorsey, who continues honoring her memory.

By Nina BrooksPublished Updated 2 min read

The late *Glee* star Naya Rivera left an indelible mark on Hollywood, but her most precious legacy lives on through her young son, Josey Hollis Dorsey. The actress shared her only child with ex-husband Ryan Dorsey before her tragic death in July 2020. Today, the young boy continues to grow up surrounded by a strong support system dedicated to honoring his mother's memory. Naya and Ryan welcomed Josey into the world in September 2015, roughly a year after tying the knot. Although the pair eventually ended their marriage in 2018, reports noted they remained deeply committed to co-parenting their son. Both parents frequently posted sweet updates of their family life, showing a tight-knit bond with the young boy.

Who is Naya Rivera son Josey Hollis Dorsey?

Ryan Dorsey holding his son Josey Hollis Dorsey
Ryan Dorsey holding his son Josey Hollis Dorsey

Josey was just four years old when disaster struck during an afternoon outing at Lake Piru in Ventura County, California. In July 2020, Naya rented a pontoon boat for a swim with her son. When the vessel failed to return on schedule, authorities discovered Josey sleeping alone on board. Officials later confirmed that Naya mustered enough energy to push her son safely back onto the boat before submerging beneath the water. In the wake of the devastating loss, Ryan stepped up to raise Josey as a dedicated single father. The family rallied around the young boy during an extraordinarily difficult time, with Naya's sister Nickayla Rivera even moving in temporarily to assist with daily caregiving and provide stability for her nephew.

at The UNICEF Dia de los Muertos Black & White Masquerade Ball at Hollywood Forever Cemetery benefitting UNICEF’s education programs for Syrian children on October 30, 2014 in Los Angeles, California.
Naya Rivera and Ryan Dorsey at The UNICEF Dia de los Muertos Black & White Masquerade Ball at Hollywood Forever Cemetery benefitting UNICEF’s education programs for

Where is Ryan Dorsey raising Josey now?

Naya Rivera and Ryan Dorsey in the story: Inside Naya Rivera's Lasting Legacy Through Her Son Josey Hollis Dorsey
Naya Rivera and Ryan Dorsey in the story: Inside Naya Rivera's Lasting Legacy Through Her Son Josey Hollis Dorsey

Over the years, Ryan has continued to document Josey’s milestones on social media, showing off his son's growing personality, humor, and striking resemblance to his late mother. From celebrating birthdays to marking emotional holidays, the proud dad makes a point to keep Naya's spirit present in their everyday lives. Followers and former co-stars of the musical comedy series regularly offer words of encouragement to the family. Ryan frequently expresses gratitude for the outpouring of love from fans who cherished Naya's work on screen. Through heartfelt tributes and quiet moments at home, Josey remains surrounded by reminders of how deeply his mother loved him.

The photos · 5

Ryan Dorsey holding his son Josey Hollis Dorsey
Naya Rivera and Ryan Dorsey at The UNICEF Dia de los Muertos Black & White Masquerade Ball at Hollywood Forever Cemetery benefitting UNICEF’s education programs for
Naya Rivera and Ryan Dorsey in the story: Inside Naya Rivera's Lasting Legacy Through Her Son Josey Hollis Dorsey
Naya Rivera poses for a portrait in New York Naya Rivera Portrait Session, New York, USA
Cast members, including Heather Morris, from the TV Show "Glee" and friends held hands as they shouted "Say her nam

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People also ask

Who is Naya Rivera's son?
Naya Rivera's son is Josey Hollis Dorsey, born in September 2015 during her marriage to actor Ryan Dorsey.
Who has custody of Naya Rivera's child?
Her ex-husband, actor Ryan Dorsey, raises Josey as his primary caregiver following Naya's tragic passing in 2020.