Naya Rivera’s Son Josey Dorsey to Debut in Rust Belt Drama

Key points

• Josey Dorsey is listed in the cast of The Burning Valley, marking his first feature film role.
• The film is directed by Evan Coury and centers on a steelworker navigating life after a mill shutdown.
• Ryan Dorsey is also cast in the project, potentially sharing screen time with his son.
• Filming began in August 2026 in Pennsylvania, including locations in Brackenridge and Arnold.
• The story is described by the director as a personal journey through a Rust Belt town.

Background

This development follows Naya Rivera’s death in 2020 and the subsequent public attention on her son, Josey, who has been living with his father in West Virginia since 2023. Previous coverage noted Josey’s involvement in local theater productions and his piano lessons, which Ryan Dorsey has described as a way to connect with his late wife’s memory.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter and Page Six both confirm the casting of Josey and Ryan Dorsey in The Burning Valley, citing IMDB listings. While THR notes the film’s focus on a steelworker’s journey, Page Six emphasizes the emotional context of Josey’s debut six years after his mother’s death. Both outlets highlight the father-son dynamic, though Page Six includes additional details about Josey’s piano lessons and a 'Mommy’s Garden' in their West Virginia home. No significant disagreements exist between the sources, but Page Six provides more personal background on the family’s life since Rivera’s passing.

Why it matters

The casting of Josey Dorsey in a feature film marks a notable moment for the family of a beloved Glee star, blending personal tragedy with a new chapter in entertainment. The film’s focus on Rust Belt deindustrialization also reflects a broader trend in independent cinema to explore regional economic struggles through intimate, character-driven narratives.

What to watch

The Burning Valley is expected to continue filming in Pennsylvania, with production moving toward the Allegheny River area in the coming months. No release date has been announced, but the film’s completion will likely draw attention to both the project’s thematic depth and the Dorsey family’s public presence.