Stars of Glee are sharing their support and love for their former costar Naya Rivera, who was pronounced dead today after she went missing at California’s Lake Piru last week. The 33-year-old actress had gone swimming with her four-year-old son, Josey, at the lake on Wednesday but never returned. Her son was found safe but alone sleeping on the boat they had rented. Today, after days of searching, a body was recovered at the scene and authorities are “confident” it is Rivera’s.

Ever since the actress’s disappearance last week, fans, Glee viewers, and Rivera’s former cast mates have been sharing touching messages in her honor. The actress and singer starred as tough cheerleader Santana Lopez for six seasons on the hit TV series created by Ryan Murphy. Here are just some of the ways her costars have been paying tribute to her amid news of her passing.

Heather Morris

Morris, who starred opposite Rivera as Santana’s best friend-turned-spouse Brittany, offered to help police with the investigation over the weekend. “I’m Nayas close friend and co-worker, and I’m trying to conduct an on foot search and rescue mission along with a small group of friends at Lake Piru,” she tweeted at the Ventura County sheriff on Sunday.

People also reported today that Morris was at the lake with friends. She was apparently spotted in footage from an ABC7 news report at the site, holding hands with a group by the water. Fans on social media believe the others include more Glee cast members, but that remains unconfirmed.

Lea Michele

The actress, who starred as Rachel Berry, shared black-and-white behind-the-scenes photos of Rivera, one of which included a group photo with other Glee stars. Michele also shared a photo of Cory Monteith, who passed away seven years ago today.


Chris Colfer

Colfer, who portrayed Kurt Hummel, shared a moving tribute to Rivera on Instagram. Posting a black and white photo with the late actress, he wrote, “Being close to her was both a badge of honor and a suit of armor. Naya was truly one of a kind, and she always will be. 💔 Sending all my love to her wonderful family and her beautiful son.”

Jenna Ushkowitz

“Naya, you were a ⚡️ force and everyone who got to be around you knew it and felt the light and joy you exuded when you walked into a room,” wrote Ushkowitz, who portrayed Tina Cohen-Chang on Glee.

“You shined on stage and screen and radiated with love behind closed doors,” she added, captioning a sweet photo with Rivera. “I was lucky enough to share so many laughs, martinis and secrets with you.”

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There are no words and yet so many things I want to say, I don't believe I'll ever be able to articulate exactly what I feel but… Naya, you were a ⚡️ force and everyone who got to be around you knew it and felt the light and joy you exuded when you walked into a room. You shined on stage and screen and radiated with love behind closed doors. I was lucky enough to share so many laughs, martinis and secrets with you. I can not believe I took for granted that you'd always be here. Our friendship went in waves as life happens and we grow, so I will not look back and regret but know I love you and promise to help the legacy of your talent, humor, light and loyalty live on. You are so loved. You deserved the world and we will make sure Josey and your family feel that everyday. I miss you already.

A post shared by Jenna Ushkowitz (@jennaushkowitz) on

Jane Lynch

The actress who played Coach Sue Sylvester on the series tweeted heartwarming words for Rivera. “Rest sweet, Naya. What a force you were. Love and peace to your family,” she wrote.

Alex Newell

Newell, who joined Glee in 2012 as Unique Adams, posted an uplifting note with Rivera’s young son, Josey, in mind.

Max Adler

The actor who played football player David Karofsky expressed his sadness with emojis. He also referenced the significance of the date, which Monteith’s death anniversary.

Josh Sussman

Sussman, who made brief appearances on the TV show as Jacob Ben Israel, wrote, “Naya, you will be missed so much.”

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