Naya Marie Rivera Dorsey, professionally known as Naya Rivera, was an American actress and singer. She was born in California and spent most of her life in Los Angeles. Of African-American and Puerto Rican descent, she was the daughter of former model Yolanda Rivera and George Rivera. Her siblings include brother Mychal Rivera, a former NFL tight end, and sister Nickayla Rivera, a runway model. Naya began working in the entertainment industry at just nine months old under the management of her mother.
Rivera started her career as a baby in Kmart television commercials before breaking through in 1991 with a role as Hillary Winston on the CBS sitcom The Royal Family. The show initially received positive reviews and high ratings but was canceled following the unexpected death of lead actor Redd Foxx. Despite its short run, Rivera earned a nomination for a Young Artist Award thanks to her performance.
She went on to appear in several popular television series and films, including The Master of Disguise, Even Stevens, House Blend, The Jersey, Smart Guy, Baywatch, Live Shot, Family Matters, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She was also featured in the short film Why I Love You and had a guest appearance on The Bernie Mac Show in 2002.
Naya Rivera rose to prominence for her role as Santana Lopez on the Fox musical comedy-drama series Glee. Initially a supporting character, Rivera’s portrayal of the sharp-tongued cheerleader with a vulnerable side became a fan favorite. Her nuanced performance earned widespread acclaim and allowed her to showcase her vocal talents on the show.
Aside from acting, Rivera pursued a music career. She released her debut single "Sorry," featuring rapper Big Sean, in 2013. That same year, she signed a recording deal with Columbia Records to work on a solo album. Although the album was never released, her involvement in music was met with anticipation and reinforced her versatile talents in the entertainment industry.
Rivera had a series of high-profile relationships. She dated Glee co-star Mark Salling, though the relationship ended amid unconfirmed personal disputes. In 2013, she began dating rapper Big Sean. The two got engaged later that year but called off the engagement in 2014. Later that same year, Rivera married actor Ryan Dorsey in a private ceremony in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The two had been longtime friends prior to their romantic involvement.
| Birth Date: | 12 Jan, 1987 |
| Age: | 33 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Santa Clarita |
| residence: | Los Angeles |
| Gender: | Female |
| Description: | American actress and singer |
| Twitter Id: | NayaRivera |
| Net Worth 2021: | 5 million |
