Cory Monteith Death: He Was 'Special Part of This World,' 'Glee' Co-Star Naya Rivera Says
Naya Rivera, who plays Santana Lopez on Glee, honored her late co-star Cory Monteith with an emotional statement.
"The entire Glee family and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy," she told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement published on Monday.
"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," she said.
FOX also previously released a statement in regards to Monteith's sudden death.
"We are deeply saddened by this tragic news. Cory was an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person," the network said. "He was a true joy to work with and we will all miss him tremendously. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones."
His girlfriend and Glee co-star Lea Michele, asked for her "privacy during this devastating time," according to People.
Many other celebrities also expressed their sorrow via Twitter.
"Cory Monteith, may your spirit be at peace, and may you fly with the angels... Heartbreaking, my prayers are with all of his loved ones," Rihanna tweeted on July 14.
"I'm gutted. Shocked and saddened to hear the news, my heart goes out to Cory's family and friends. Lets respect their space as they grieve," actress Nina Dobrev wrote.
"I saw him a few weeks ago in NY, looking so happy. Heartbreaking," Sophia Bush tweeted.
The actor, who played Finn Hudson on the TV show, was found dead in his hotel room in Vancouver on July 13. Monteith was 31. The cause of death has not been determined. However, the actor did have a history of substance abuse and checked himself into a treatment facility in March.
