By Ana Perez
Naya Rivera, best known for her breakthrough performance as Santana Lopez on Fox’s television series Glee, died of what was ruled an accidental drowning, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. On July 8, Rivera went missing after renting a pontoon boat and going for a swim with her 4-year-old son at Lake Piru, California. She son was found later sleeping in the boat with his life vest on.
The loss of Rivera is felt by millions. Many have shared touching memories, expressed their condolences and shared photos with Rivera on social media, including loving tributes to the beloved actress from friends, family, fellow actors and producers who worked with her.
“RIP Naya Rivera,” singer, songwriter and actress Demi Lovato tweeted. “I’ll forever cherish the opportunity to play your girlfriend on Glee. The character you played was groundbreaking for tons of closeted (at the time) queer girls like me, and your ambition and accomplishments were inspiring to Latina women all over the world.”
“She played by her own rules and was in a class of her own. She had a brashness about her that I couldn’t help but be enchanted by.” Glee co-star Darren Criss tweeted. “I also always loved her voice, and savored every chance I got to hear her sing. I think she had more talent than we would have ever been able to see.”
Rivera began her acting career at just four years old on the set of CBS’s sitcom The Royal Family in 1991. She landed small roles over the years, but Rivera’s portrayal of Santana Lopez on Glee truly showcased her talent.
Although Rivera’s character in Glee initially began as just another stereotypical popular cheerleader, she grew into a complex and fierce character that quickly made her a fan favorite. Her depiction of the lesbian Latina on Glee resonated with millions as Rivera brought Santana’s story of coming to terms with her sexual identity to life.
Naya’s family released a statement through several of the Hollywood trades that read in part:
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers for Naya, Josey and our family…While we grieve the loss of our beautiful legend, we are blessed to honor her everlasting legacy and magnetic spirit. Naya was an amazing talent, but was an even greater person, mother, daughter and sister.
“Her beauty and talent were out worldly,” Glee co-star Chris Colfer, who played Kurt Hummel, wrote in an Instagram post. “She spoke truth to power with poise and fearlessness.”
“Naya Rivera was a fierce talent with so much more to do and this is such a terrible tragedy,” 20th Century Fox Television and Fox Entertainment said in a statement. “We are forever grateful for the indelible contribution she made to Glee from the first episode to the last. Our hearts are broken and our thoughts go out to Naya’s family, friends and young son.”
The impact of her role is still felt by fans today. Rivera used her platform to advocate for more diversity on television.