Amber Riley says Naya Rivera and Corey Monteith’s names "every day" to remember her late ‘Glee’ co-stars.
The 34-year-old actress has penned a heartfelt tribute to Naya, who drowned in Lake Piru, California, earlier this month aged 33, and admitted she is "so mad at the world" following the Santana Lopez actress’ death.
She wrote on Instagram: "Best duets on the show! PERIODT! Couldn’t tell us shxt. Honorable mention, Troubletones, @heatherrelizabethh and @littlelengies miss you baby girl and I love you #NayaRivera I’m so mad the world will never see how high you could have soared. Her brain was brilliant. She was smart and as quick as a whip. Always had me in stitches, we would be in tears laughing so hard at one another.
"There was never competition, or shade, or intimidation with us. Just pure adoration and mutual respect. You deserved better.
You were so much more than just this show. Your talent outshined us all so many times!
"Favorite Naya Moment: tour bus to London, Naya greasing her scalp with Doo Gro oil, a plastic cap and a silk bonnet. my sister said "oh Naya you blackity black black" we burst out into laughter! We needed it too because we just wanted to get home to our families.
"We were alike in that way. We love hard, and protect our own, and we don’t take no s*** from anyone (Kevin is literally the byproduct of US) We can either slice you with our words, or bring you comfort with that same breath. Dealer’s choice. I say your name everyday and hold you in my heart, just like I do Cory. (sic)"
Corey – who played Finn Hudson on the musical comedy-drama – was found dead in a hotel room in 2013 aged 31.
Amber admitted she has cried "until [her] tear ducts have dried out" after hearing of Naya’s passing.
She added: "We are working as a cast and crew and a family to come together and show love, and it’s all because of you. Your presence brought so much excitement, so much passion, so much joy, and in your absence you’re STILL holding us accountable and getting us together. I’ve cried until my tear ducts have dried out, now it’s time to celebrate the fact that us mere humans got to experience walking through life with an earth angel. Rest well. I pray you found the peace we all are searching for. (sic)"
Amber also asked her followers to keep Naya’s family "in their prayers".
She added: "Please keep Naya’s family in your prayers. Please be mindful of the things you say to them or messages you send. If it’s anything beyond condolences and words of encouragement, keep it to yourself. All they need is love and good energy and support right now. We clear? Cool. Thank you (sic)"
Naya had rented a boat for a day on the lake with her four-year-old son Josey. He was found asleep in the rented vessel by another boater and later told Ventura County Sherriff’s deputies that his mother had gone swimming in the water, but didn’t get back up.