The tragic death of actress Naya Rivera continues to cast shadows over the lives of her family members, particularly her son, Josey. Now approaching the five-year anniversary of Rivera’s boating accident, her ex-husband, Ryan Dorsey, recalls the struggle both he and Josey face as they navigate life without her.
Rivera, best known for her role on the hit television show Glee, drowned at the age of 33 on July 8, 2020. Her death occurred during a boat outing at Lake Piru, California, when she and her then-four-year-old son went for a swim, and tragedy struck as she was unable to return to their drifting vessel. Dorsey, who learned about Rivera’s disappearance from her stepfather, described his immediate reaction to the news as one of disbelief and terror, stating, “I instantly said, ‘What do you mean? She knows how to swim.’” That day marked the beginning of five harrowing days filled with fear and uncertainty.
Upon discovering Josey asleep on the boat still wearing his life jacket, rescue teams launched a full-scale search for Rivera. Josey later recounted to investigators how he saw his mother disappear beneath the water after she helped him back onto the boat. According to him, the last words he heard from Rivera were his name before she went under.
“Something he’s said over and over is he was trying to find a life raft, and there was a rope, but there was a big spider on the rope, and he was too scared to throw it,” Dorsey shared with People magazine, conveying the deep trauma and guilt Josey still feels. This constant replaying of the events weighs heavily on the young boy, who was just four when he witnessed such heartbreaking loss.
Dorsey describes how Josey remembers scenarios from the day, including concerns he had about the windy conditions before they entered the water. To ease those concerns, Rivera had reassured him playfully, telling him, “Don’t be silly!” This phrase has now become bittersweet, connecting Josey to memories of his mother.
Throughout their grief, Dorsey has been adamant about reassuring Josey, who still struggles with the idea of being unable to save her. “I keep reassuring him, ‘Buddy, the rope wasn’t going to be long enough,’” Dorsey mentioned, highlighting the unique challenges of parenting through grief. He added, “It’s hard trying to explain things you can’t really make sense of no matter what age you are.”
The holidays have proven particularly difficult for the small family. Dorsey noted how they had created a memory book for Josey, which he turns to when grieving the loss of his mother. “During the holidays, he was crying, looking at it,” Dorsey explained, comforting him as best he could.
Since Rivera’s death, Dorsey and Josey moved away from Los Angeles to West Virginia, seeking solace from the media and chaotic reminders of their past. Upon moving, they spent time with Nickayla Rivera, Naya’s sister, who helped provide stability during such tumultuous times. Dorsey has spoken about Nickayla's significant role as another maternal figure for Josey, saying, “She served as somewhat of a female figure… sometimes because the way she would say things to Josey would sound like his mom.”
Reflecting on the years passed since losing Rivera, Dorsey admits it has been challenging to come to terms with her absence. He stated in past interviews, “I still can't really look at pictures of her, and it's still hard to talk, but I feel like I'm ready.” The emotional weight of her absence is palpable, as he shared his thoughts on protective parenting and how he always aims to give Josey the best possible upbringing.
Looking out for Josey’s well-being remains Dorsey's utmost priority. “I’m trying to be the best parent I can be and raise a good little man,” he said. Despite all they’ve faced, he encourages everyone to recognize the importance of compassion and kindness, telling Josey, “Life is not fair. Bad things happen, and there’s no reason for it.”
The mourning process for Rivera’s family has included pursuing legal action, as they filed and settled wrongful death lawsuits following the tragedy. While the incidents surrounding Rivera’s death were ruled accidental drowning, the family sought accountability. Dorsey, through his heartache, continues to advocate for the memory of Rivera, ensuring she remains etched fondly in their hearts.
Today, Josey is described as an energizing presence, eager to embrace life. Dorsey reflects on the positives, affirming, “He wakes up happy, all energy,” even as they both carry the burden of their tragic past. Their bond remains strong, serving as the motivation needed to navigate the future together, one day at a time.