'Glee' Creators Are Setting Up A College Fund For Naya Rivera's Son Following Her Death

Glee's creators have set up a college fund for Naya Rivera's son, Josey Hollis Dorsey, in the wake of her tragic death.

Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan announced the news as they made a statement on Tuesday, following Naya's tragic passing.

It comes after Naya, 33, was announced to have died from accidental drowning at California's Lake Piru on Monday, following a boating trip with her little one.

Josey later told authorities that they had both gone for a swim in the lake, with police concluding that when the current became too strong, Naya may have tragically mustered enough energy to carry her son to safety, but not to save herself.

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The Glee creators said: "Naya was more than just an actor on our show - she was our friend.

"Our hearts go out to her family, especially her mom, Yolanda, who was a big part of the Glee family, and her son Josey.

"The three of us are currently in the process of creating a college fund for the beautiful son Naya loved most of all."

Naya played cheerleader Santana Lopez in the 2009-2015 TV series - with scenes of her incredible performances being shared online as tributes in the wake of her passing.

Posting on Instagram following the heartbreaking news, actor Darren Criss, who played Blaine Anderson on the show, wrote: "She was bold. She was outrageous. She was a LOT of fun.

"Even as I sit here, struggling to comprehend, gutted beyond description - the very thought of her cracks me up and still brings a smile to my face. That was Naya's gift. And it's a gift that will never go away."

Meanwhile, Jane Lynch, who played cheer coach Sue Sylvester, tweeted: "Rest sweet, Naya. What a force you were. Love and peace to your family."

Demi Lovato, who played Santana's partner on the show in season five, said: "RIP Naya Rivera. I'll forever cherish the opportunity to play your girlfriend on Glee.

"The character you played was groundbreaking for tons of closeted queer girls (like me at the time) and open queer girls, and your ambition and accomplishments were inspiring to Latina women all over the world.

"My heart goes out to your loved ones at this time.. "

RIP, Naya.

Topics: Glee, Naya Rivera, News, Celebrity News

Joanna Freedman

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected].

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