Jane Lynch Pays Tribute To Co-Glee Star Naya Rivera On The 'Today' Show
A month after the devastating death of her fellow Glee star Naya Rivera, Jane Lynch, 60, guests on the 'Today' Show on the program's Aug. 12 (Wednesday) episode. The American actress, who played as Sue Sylvester in the Fox musical comedy series, sits and talks with host Jenna Bush virtually about her late co-star and friend's recalls.
According to Billboard, referencing Lynch's interview with Bush, the actress said that Rivera, who played Santana Lopez on Glee, was profoundly appraised as a "force of nature" on the musical set series. She added that Rivera is underrated and was not given the right amount of credit for her distinct talent. Lynch explained that the Glee cats have many skills to offer: leading some, if not, to get lost in force. The actress blurted out that Rivera is one of those people, making every scene as if it's like her last. "She wasn't in every scene, but when she was ... she just blew everybody away," Lynch said.
Previously in July, the mother-of-one, Rivera, was reported as a missing person after her 4-year-old son, Josey Dorsey, was spotted on a boat that the songstress had rented at Southern California's Lake Piru. The search and rescue team of the county immediately stepped in to search for Rivera. Still, four days later, her body was found underwater, and the police officers confirmed it was Rivera. "It's just gut-wrenching and heartbreaking that she's gone," Lynch said to Bush.
As per Deadline, Lynch notably commends Rivera's influence on the young LGBTQ members through her character on the show. Rivera's role is in a relationship with fellow lesbian Brittany Pierce, acted by actress Heather Morris. The portrayal of Rivera is the best example of the actress's craft in representing the LGBTQ community. Lynch added that to her, Rivera is a great advocate to many young people who holds the same situation and preference.
'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' lead star also shared how she admires Rivera's friendly nature on the set of Glee, on-off the camera, and that includes the actress' niece. Lynch's niece, Megan, worked with her on the set of Glee as an assistant. As per Lynch, Megan is super close to Rivera, promising Megan that no one will mess around with her when she's around.
Rivera graced the full six seasons of Glee as a high school cheerleader. At the same time, Lynch played Rivera's cheerleading coach.
Watch the full interview here.