Ryan Dorsey is opening up about the impact of Naya Rivera's death on their son Josey, highlighting the emotional struggles faced by the nine-year-old boy following the tragic drowning of his mother.
Rivera, known for her role on the popular television show Glee, died on July 8, 2020, during what was meant to be a joyful day on the water with her then-four-year-old son, Josey. Dorsey, who was Rivera's husband for four years, recalls receiving the news of her disappearance with chilling clarity. "I instantly said, 'What do you mean? She knows how to swim,'" Dorsey stated during his interview with People. The sense of shock overwhelmed him; he fell to the ground when told they were trying to rescue Rivera.
Driving 145 miles to Lake Piru, where the accident occurred, Dorsey described his frantic reality, saying, "I drove 100-and-something the whole way with my four-way hazards on, chain-smoking cigarettes — and I don’t even smoke, really — and just crying. I just wanted to get to Josey." This emotional turmoil marked the beginning of their lives without Rivera.
Five days later, on July 13, Rivera’s body was recovered, solidifying the tragic turn of events. For Josey, who witnessed his mother's last moments, the incident continues to cast long shadows. Dorsey shared, "Something he's said over and over is... there was a big spider on the rope, and he was too scared to throw it." This memory plagues Josey, making him feel as if he could have saved his mother.
Dorsey elaborated on the complex emotions his son grapples with, noting how Josey often expresses guilt and confusion over the incident. According to Dorsey, Josey recalled with clarity the last words Rivera spoke to him, which were his name just before she disappeared under the water. "It just rocks my world... he had to witness her last moments," he said, visibly affected by the weight of this reality.
Despite all this, Dorsey reiterates his belief through the storm of grief. He reached for moments of normalcy as he navigates the holidays and special occasions, which remain particularly challenging for both of them. He shared, "We made this book of memories for Josey... and during the holidays, he was crying looking at it. You can only give him a hug and tell him, 'I know, life is not fair.'" This book serves as both a tribute to Rivera and a tool for healing.
Two years after Rivera's passing, Dorsey and Josey relocated from Los Angeles to West Virginia, seeking to rebuild their lives away from the memories of the city. Dorsey describes his son as "a happy kid," adding, "He wakes up happy, all energy." This positivity is what fuels Dorsey to push forward each day, ensuring he raises Josey with love and care, embodying the spirit of Rivera.
The transition has not been without difficulty; Dorsey admits there are days when words fail him as he tries to comfort his son. "It’s hard trying to explain things... I’m not a big believer in everything happens for a reason because I can’t ever think of a reason why he doesn’t have his mom," he explained. This reflection showcases both the pain and the complexity of continuing to live after such a loss.
Reflecting on Rivera's legacy, Dorsey expressed hope for Josey's future, emphasizing how much of her spirit still resonates within their son. "He’s definitely his mama’s son, because when he doesn’t get the answer he wants, he keeps talking. He doesn’t know a stranger. He is such a happy kid," Dorsey said with pride, celebrating the best parts of Rivera manifested through their son.
Through sharing his story, Dorsey not only honors Rivera's memory but also provides insight to others experiencing loss. His poignant reflections serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of love, the complexity of grief, and the resilience of families attempting to heal.