Naya Rivera’s Son Josey, 10, Books First Movie Role Alongside His Dad 6 Years After “Glee ”Star’s Death

**Josey Dorsey Set for Onto the Screen in ‘The Burning Valley’**

Josey Hollis Dorsey, the son of late actress Naya Rivera, is poised to make his screen debut in the upcoming feature film *The Burning Valley*. At just 10 years old, Josey will share the screen with his father, actor Ryan Dorsey, marking a significant step in the young boy’s burgeoning acting career. This news arrives nearly three years after the tragic passing of his mother in July 2020.

*The Burning Valley*, directed by Evan Coury, recently commenced filming in Pennsylvania. Josey’s role is currently listed simply as “Son” on the film’s IMDb page, while Dorsey will portray the character identified as “Father.” Although detailed story information is scarce, Coury has provided some insight, describing the film as exploring themes of deindustrialisation. He explained to a local newspaper, *The Tribune-Review*, that the narrative follows a steelworker who faces unemployment when his mill shuts down, prompting him to navigate the complexities of life in his Rust Belt town.

This project marks Evan Coury’s directorial debut, having previously gained acting experience in short films and features. His creative vision aims to reflect the historical context of the region through a deeply personal narrative, as he articulated in his interview. The film has been characterised by Coury as both introspective and visually striking, with a goal to encapsulate the essence of the community he hails from.

The cast of *The Burning Valley* boasts a range of talent including Tyler Miles, JB Brown, Joseph Ducar, Whip Hubley, Patrick Jordan, Sam Lothard, Joseph Mazza, and Sheila McKenna. As filming progresses, it is expected that more details about the plot and supporting characters will surface.

Josey’s journey into acting began at an early age when he made his theatre debut at the age of eight in a production of *Seussical Jr.* in West Virginia. Dorsey and his son made the move from Los Angeles to West Virginia in 2023, a transition that has ostensibly allowed them to forge a new life away from the glare of Hollywood. Ryan Dorsey, known for his roles in television series such as *Yellowstone* and *Ray Donovan*, has been dedicated to raising Josey in a nurturing and positive environment.

The announcement of Josey’s casting brings a poignant layer to the narrative, given the heart-wrenching circumstances surrounding the loss of his mother, Naya Rivera. The actress tragically drowned on July 8, 2020, during a boating incident in Lake Piru, California. Her untimely demise was a significant blow to her family and fans alike, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment community.

In the wake of this tragedy, Ryan Dorsey has been vocal about the challenges of parenting alone while ensuring Josey maintains a sense of happiness and security. In a previous interview, he expressed admiration for his son’s resilience and joyfulness, remarking on his ability to wake up with a smile. Dorsey has also openly shared his fears regarding Josey’s experience of witnessing such a traumatic event, emphasizing the profound emotional toll it has taken on their lives.

As the film *The Burning Valley* takes shape, the Dorsey family continues to navigate their journey through grief and healing. Josey’s entry into the acting world, alongside his father, represents not only a tribute to his mother’s legacy but also a testament to his evolving identity as a young actor. His participation in this project is hopeful to resonate with audiences, particularly those familiar with his mother’s work and the challenges faced by families in the wake of loss.

As filming progresses, fans of Naya Rivera, as well as supporters of the Dorsey family, will undoubtedly follow Josey’s journey closely. His debut film role is anticipated by many, not merely as a window into the family’s resilience, but as a celebration of nurturing talent amidst adversity.