Josey Dorsey, Son of Naya Rivera, Makes Acting Debut in Independent Film
Naya Rivera's 11-year-old son, Josey Dorsey, is making his acting debut in the independent film "The Burning Valley," which is shooting in Pennsylvania, six years after his mother's death.
Cleveland Akron, OH, August 31, 2026 — Josey Dorsey, the 11-year-old son of the late actress Naya Rivera, is embarking on his acting career with a debut role in the independent film “The Burning Valley.”
The project is currently in production in Pennsylvania. This marks a significant milestone for young Dorsey, occurring six years after the passing of his mother, Naya Rivera, who was widely recognized for her role as Santana Lopez in the television series “Glee.” The news of his acting debut highlights a new chapter for Josey as he steps into the world of filmmaking.
The independent film, titled “The Burning Valley,” is being shot in the state of Pennsylvania, a location chosen for its production opportunities. The specifics regarding Josey Dorsey’s character and the plot details of “The Burning Valley” have not been extensively detailed. Further information regarding the film’s production team, budget, or release date was not provided in the available summary.
Naya Rivera tragically passed away in 2020. Her son, Josey, was seven years old at the time of her death. The announcement of his acting debut comes at a time when he is navigating adolescence, six years after the loss of his mother. The circumstances surrounding his entry into acting and the inspiration behind it are central to the current narrative, as he follows a path connected to the entertainment industry where his mother established her career.
The choice of an independent film for his first role suggests a focused approach to his budding career. Independent productions often offer unique creative environments and opportunities for emerging talent to develop their craft. The production’s setting in Pennsylvania places it within a region that has seen a growing presence in film and television shooting in recent years.
Details concerning the broader cast and crew of “The Burning Valley,” as well as its genre and thematic elements, are expected to emerge as production progresses. Josey Dorsey’s involvement marks his first credited acting role, positioning him as a developing talent in the film industry.
Story summarized from the original created by Megan Sims on www.cleveland.com, see more information here.
