In an exciting development for the Dorsey family, Ryan Dorsey announced that his son Josey is set to make his mark in the film industry. The ten-year-old will feature in two upcoming films, “The Burning Valley” and “Fairy Boy.” This news comes as Josey takes his first significant steps into Hollywood, following his acting debut in a theatre production of “Seussical Jr.” at the tender age of eight.
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Ryan Dorsey, 43, expressed his pride and a mix of emotions regarding his son’s new journey. During a conversation with PEOPLE, he described Josey’s performance in “The Burning Valley,” a feature film directed by Evan Coury, admiring the natural ability his son displayed in front of the camera. Dorsey stated, “It was fun and stressful at the same time watching him in front of the camera,” revealing that he witnessed significant growth in his son throughout the filming process.
The elder Dorsey, who plays Josey’s father in “The Burning Valley,” admitted to feeling proud of how Josey has managed to take on such responsibilities at a young age. “He went from being green to really leaning in and figuring it out,” he noted, seeing how his son was making conscious choices as an actor. The pressure is indeed on for young Josey, as he holds the #2 spot on the call sheet, but Ryan believes that his son has handled it exceedingly well, displaying what he calls “a lot of courage.”
In an extraordinary turn of events, on the same day Josey received news of his role in “The Burning Valley,” he was also cast in “Fairy Boy,” directed by Julia Fox. Dorsey recounted the moment with delight: “He screamed, ‘Yeah! Let’s go!’ after I showed him the text.” This joyful reaction mirrored Ryan’s own response when he first booked his acting job, showcasing the family’s shared enthusiasm for the entertainment industry.
Dorsey also expressed excitement about working alongside his son during the filming of “The Burning Valley.” He reflected on how it would be a unique experience to share the set and the atmosphere of the film industry with Josey, even though they will be filming on different days.
Before his foray into film, Josey demonstrated his affinity for acting in “Seussical Jr.” in West Virginia, where the Dorseys relocated last year from Los Angeles. The family has sought to create a supportive environment, especially given the challenges they have faced since the untimely passing of Naya Rivera, Josey’s mother. Rivera tragically lost her life on July 8, 2020, in a drowning incident while swimming off a rented boat in Lake Piru, California.
In a heartfelt interview with PEOPLE last year, Ryan Dorsey reflected on fatherhood following Rivera’s death, noting that despite the hurdles they encounter, Josey remains a “happy kid.” Dorsey is dedicated to providing a nurturing upbringing for his son, striving to be the best father possible while navigating life without Rivera. “He gives me a reason to keep going with my life,” Dorsey expressed, showing the bond they share as they tackle life’s challenges together.
The budding careers of both Josey Dorsey and his father reveal a deep familial connection and mutual support in the world of show business. As Josey steps into the limelight, both father and son are embarking on a new chapter in their lives, filled with the hope and promise that new experiences can bring. Fans of the Dorsey family will likely be eager to see what the future holds for young Josey as he embraces the world of acting, all while honouring the legacy of his late mother.