Amber Riley has opened up about her relationship with Glee co-star Naya Rivera in an emotional tribute.
The 33-year-old’s body was found in Lake Piru last Monday, five days after she went missing during a boating trip with her four-year-old son Josey.
Posting photos of her and Naya on Instagram, Amber wrote: “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.”
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“There was never competition, or shade, or intimidation with us. Just pure adoration and mutual respect. You deserved better,” Amber wrote, stating the duo performed the best duets on the show as Santana and Mercedes.
“You were so much more than just this show. Your talent outshined us all so many times!”
“Favourite 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**t from anyone,” she continued, “We can either slice you with our words, or bring you comfort with that same breath. Dealer’s choice.”
Amber also paid tribute to fellow Glee star Cory Monteith, who passed away in 2013 from an accidental drug overdose.
“I say your name everyday and hold you in my heart, just like I do Cory,” she wrote.
“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.”
Amber 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.”
This week, Goss.ie spoke to Irish Glee star Damian McGinty – who opened up about the “unbelievably talented” Naya Rivera, and his memories working alongside the actress.
Read more: EXCLUSIVE! Damian McGinty opens up about ‘incredibly talented’ Naya Rivera after her tragic death
