‘Glee’ season 5: Naya Rivera issues emotional statement on Cory Monteith’s death

While there are a number of “Glee” actors who have paid some sort of tribute to Cory Monteith following the actor’s passing on Saturday, there has been a core group of stars in which the majority has stayed quiet. We’re talking about the group who not only films every day together, but has toured over the summers, and even hangs out together away from the show and on set. Mark Salling was the first member of this group to speak out; and now we have another in Naya Rivera, who had countless storylines with Cory over the years as Santana. At one point, she was even a love interest of sorts before coming out as a lesbian.

In her statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Rivera made her thoughts clear by expressing her deep level of grief over what has transpired, and also did the same as many other actors in asking for privacy:

“The entire Glee family and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Cory was and always will be a part of my own family and a good friend. He was a special part of this world and will forever be missed. My heart goes out to Cory’s family and Lea and while we are grateful for everyone’s well wishes, privacy during this time of grief is greatly appreciated.”

Lea has continued to stay quiet and grieve, as she was clearly the one closest to him as his girlfriend. The two had been in a relationship since late 2011 / early 2012, and were even planning to reportedly move in together in the near future.

There is no word yet on what the plans for a memorial for Monteith will be, just as there are no plans currently announced as to how “Glee” will move forward following this terribly sad news.

Photo: Fox