Ryan Dorsey, ex-husband of the late Naya Rivera, has revealed that he is now dating someone new almost five years after Rivera’s tragic death. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Dorsey opened up about his love life and the challenges of raising their son, Josey, on his own after Rivera’s passing in 2020.
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Since the heartbreaking incident, Dorsey shared that Josey, now 9 years old, has expressed a desire for a stepmother and a sibling. He acknowledged the complexity of introducing a new partner into their lives and emphasised the importance of ensuring Josey’s emotional well-being throughout the process. Despite the distance between them, with Dorsey residing in West Virginia and his new partner on the east coast, Josey has given his approval cautiously.
At just 4 years old, Josey witnessed his mother’s tragic passing when she drowned in a swimming accident while they were on a boat trip. Dorsey revealed that Josey carries a sense of guilt, believing he could have saved her by throwing a rope that day. Dorsey has been supporting his son through this trauma, explaining the unfairness of life’s challenges and the necessity of coping with loss.
As Josey grows older and seeks answers about his mother’s death, Dorsey finds himself grappling with difficult conversations. He emphasises the importance of being a constant and supportive presence in Josey’s life, especially as a single parent making decisions alone. Despite the challenges, Dorsey remains committed to honouring Rivera’s memory and ensuring Josey’s well-being remains a top priority.
Reflecting on his single-parent journey, Dorsey shared his optimism about his current relationship. He expressed a desire to take things one day at a time, hopeful that his days as a single dad may soon come to an end. Although balancing his responsibilities as a parent and in his career leaves little time for personal pursuits, Dorsey is eager to explore this new connection further.
Even as Dorsey embraces a new chapter in his personal life, he remains dedicated to preserving Rivera’s legacy through thoughtful gestures, like elaborate birthday celebrations for Josey. He hopes to carry on the tradition of memorable parties that Rivera was known for and create lasting memories for their son.
As Dorsey navigates the complexities of moving forward while honouring the past, he remains resolute in sharing Rivera’s spirit with Josey and ensuring his son feels supported and loved. The journey of healing and rebuilding continues for Dorsey and Josey, as they navigate life’s challenges together while cherishing the memories of a beloved mother and partner.