Naya Rivera’s Ex Ryan Dorsey Speaks Out for the First Time About the “Glee” Star’s Tragic Death and Raising Their Son Alone (Exclusive)

Naya Rivera’s Ex Speaks Out About Her Tragic Death

Actor Ryan Dorsey, the ex-husband of the late Glee star Naya Rivera, has broken his silence for the first time about the tragic events surrounding her untimely passing. Dorsey, aged 41, recently sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, sharing insights into his experience since Rivera’s shocking drowning death five years ago.

The memories of Rivera are still very present for Dorsey, especially as he navigates life with their son Josey, now 9 years old. Dorsey reflects on how various songs, such as Amy Winehouse’s ‘Valerie’ and ‘Sunflower’ by Post Malone and Swae Lee, evoke memories of Rivera. Describing their son as having his mother’s looks and personality, Dorsey fondly recounts how Josey remains a constant reminder of Rivera’s presence in their lives.

During a recent photoshoot with PEOPLE at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, Dorsey shared how Josey’s resilience has amazed him and those around them. Despite the tragic circumstances under which he lost his mother, Josey exudes a cheerful and outgoing personality, keeping his father company with lively conversations and jokes.

The tragic events of July 8, 2020, when Rivera drowned at Lake Piru, are engraved in Dorsey’s memory. Recounting the day he received the call about Rivera’s disappearance while at a supermarket, Dorsey vividly remembers the frantic rush to reach Lake Piru and reunite with Josey, who was found alone on the boat. The subsequent search for Rivera was an agonising ordeal for Dorsey, culminating in the devastating discovery of her body five days later.

Despite the heart-wrenching loss, Dorsey admires Josey’s strength and resilience in coping with the absence of his mother. The young boy continues to grapple with feelings of guilt and sorrow, vividly recalling the events leading up to Rivera’s tragic death. Dorsey acknowledges the challenges of raising Josey as a single parent, navigating the complexities of grief and loss.

Following Rivera’s passing, Dorsey relocated to West Virginia with Josey, seeking solace away from the paparazzi glare. Recalling the ups and downs of his relationship with Rivera, Dorsey emphasises their shared commitment to prioritising Josey’s well-being above all else. Their co-parenting dynamic remained steadfast, even amidst personal struggles and uncertainties.

As Dorsey embraces the responsibilities of single parenthood, he reflects on the profound impact of Rivera’s absence on their lives. Despite the challenges, he remains dedicated to preserving Rivera’s memory for Josey, planning special celebrations to honour her legacy. Dorsey’s candid account offers a glimpse into the enduring grief and resilience that define his journey as a father and a grieving widower.

Amidst the emotional turmoil, Dorsey finds solace in his acting career, pursuing new projects and partnerships while balancing the demands of parenthood. Grappling with the complexities of grief, loss, and resilience, Dorsey’s story highlights the enduring legacy of love and loss that shapes his life and his son’s future. Through it all, Dorsey remains determined to honour Rivera’s memory and nurture Josey’s growth with love and unwavering dedication.