Key Highlights
- Kevin McHale continues to honor his lasting friendship with the late Naya Rivera by remaining a supportive presence in her son’s life.
- More than six years following the tragic passing of his Glee costar, McHale opened up about his close bond with Rivera’s son, Josey Hollis Dorsey.
- The tight-knit connection underscores the enduring relationships forged among the core cast members of the musical comedy-drama series.
Kevin McHale Honors Late ‘Glee’ Costar Naya Rivera Through Her Son Josey
Kevin McHale is actively ensuring that his deep friendship with late costar Naya Rivera remains alive and cherished. More than six years after Rivera’s untimely death, McHale has offered heartfelt insight into his enduring relationship with her young son, Josey Hollis Dorsey, who is now 11 years old.
Rivera and McHale rose to international fame alongside one another on Fox’s smash-hit musical series Glee, where Rivera portrayed Santana Lopez and McHale starred as Artie Abrams. Off-screen, the pair cultivated a deeply personal camaraderie that extended well beyond the soundstage. Following Rivera’s tragic accidental drowning in July 2020 at Lake Piru in California, several of her former castmates rallied together to support her family, with McHale maintaining a close, active role in Josey’s upbringing and milestones.
Maintaining a Meaningful Bond with Josey Hollis Dorsey
For Kevin McHale, staying connected with Josey is a natural extension of the love and admiration he holds for Rivera. Sharing occasional glimpses into their lives, McHale has highlighted how essential it is for Rivera’s close circle to keep her memory, spirit, and legacy present for her child as he grows up.
Josey, whose father is actor Ryan Dorsey, was just four years old when his mother passed away. In the years since, Dorsey and Rivera’s closest confidantsāincluding McHale and other Glee alumniāhave focused on providing a stable, loving community around him. McHale’s continued involvement highlights a commitment to being a constant fixture in Josey’s corner, creating lasting memories while celebrating the profound bond he shared with the boy’s late mother.
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Why This Matters
The tragedy surrounding Naya Rivera’s sudden passing in 2020 deeply affected Hollywood and millions of fans worldwide. In an entertainment industry often defined by fleeting connections, the ongoing commitment demonstrated by the Glee cast highlights genuine, lifelong support networks. By remaining actively present in Josey Hollis Dorsey’s life, Kevin McHale and his peers not only offer steady companionship to a child navigating life after loss, but also ensure that Rivera’s impact, generosity, and artistry continue to be remembered and honored personally and publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Josey Hollis Dorsey?
Josey Hollis Dorsey is the son of the late actress and singer Naya Rivera and actor Ryan Dorsey. He was born in September 2015.
How did Kevin McHale and Naya Rivera know each other?
Kevin McHale and Naya Rivera starred together on the critically acclaimed musical comedy-drama television series Glee, which aired on Fox from 2009 to 2015. Over the course of the show’s six-season run, the two became close friends.
How long has it been since Naya Rivera’s passing?
Naya Rivera tragically passed away in July 2020 during a boating excursion at Lake Piru in Ventura County, California, marking more than six years since her death.




