Naya Rivera’s family pay tribute to 'beautiful legend' in moving statement on Glee star's death
Naya Rivera’s family have paid tribute to the actor following her tragic death, aged just 33.
Rivera, who was best known for playing feisty cheerleader Santana Lopez in musical comedy Glee, accidentally drowned while trying to save the life of four-year-old son Josey, officials ruled.
Since her body was retrieved from in Lake Piru, California, a number of her co-stars have paid tribute to the actor and lamented her shocking death.
Rivera’s family have now broken their silence following the coroner’s report, issuing a statement asking for privacy at this difficult time.
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers for Naya, Josey and our family over the past week,” a family representative told Deadline.
"While we grieve the loss of our beautiful legend, we are blessed to honour her everlasting legacy and magnetic spirit.
“Naya was an amazing talent, but was an even greater person, mother, daughter and sister.”
The statement continued: “Thank you to the men and women of the Ventura, Tulare, and San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Departments for your commitment and unwavering effort to find Naya.
“We extend endless gratitude and ovation to the heroine who found her. Thank you to her friends, colleagues, and fans for your continuous support.
“Heaven gained our sassy angel. We kindly request that our privacy be respected during this very difficult time.”
Officers have said there was “no indication” that Rivera took her own life or there was foul play.
Speaking during a press conference, Sheriff Bill Ayub shared more details about how the actor may have died.
He said police were working on the theory that currents may have caused an unanchored boat, which she had hired out, to drift away from Rivera and her son Josey, who was wearing a life jacket, while they were swimming.
Rivera, who was not wearing a life jacket, may have “mustered enough energy” to put the child back on board but not enough to save herself, he added.
Read more
Meghan Markle debuts polished new look during impassioned speech
Young adults have highest Covid-19 infection rates, study shows
We need tourists to breathe life back into London, urges minister
