Naya Rivera’s Greatest ‘Glee’ Moments

Naya Rivera’s family has finally settled its wrongful death lawsuit after the actress drowned in July of 2020, and now fans are revisiting the actress’ work all over again. Rivera starred in the Fox sitcom Glee, and she had some of the most relatable moments of the entire series. Here’s a look back on Santana Lopez’s top moments.

Rivera went missing in Lake Piru in Ventura County, California in July of 2020, swept away from her 4-year-old son Josey in the water. According to a report by Fox News, her family reached a settlement with the Ventura County Parks and Recreation Management earlier this month. This will not only bring emotional closure but some financial stability for Josey and the recovering family. Meanwhile, fans continue to reflect on Rivera’s work.

Rivera was in the original main cast of Glee, playing the spiteful cheerleader Santana. She brought depth to a character that many were prepared to write off as a sidekick, and she continued to grow over the course of several years. Fans watched Santana come out of the closet as a lesbian, grow into her confidence as a singer and dancer, and even move on past high school.

Since Rivera’s passing, many have reflected on how much this representation meant to them when they were younger. They have shared poignant highlights from the show — particularly Rivera’s haunting cover of “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry, which was a tribute to cast member Cory Monteith following his own untimely death.

Many other moments from Glee are relevant to Rivera and her mourners, however. Fans have gone back to revisit both the good and the bad, encapsulating Rivera’s range on-screen. Here is a look at some of the highlights fans are focused on.

If I Die Young

Santana Coming Out

Don’t Rain on My Parade

Valerie

Santana & Brittany

Rumor Has It/Someone Like You

Standing Up For Finn

Fan-Edits and Highlights