Big Sean is “still grieving and in shock” after the death of his ex-fiance Naya Rivera.
The 32-year-old rapper “Bounce Back” took to social media on Friday night (July 17) to share an emotional tribute to Rivera, who recently accidentally drowned in Southern California.
“Rest in peace, Naya, may God bless your soul. Thank you for blessing us all with your talent and presence,” Sean captioned Rivera’s photos on Instagram. “You are a hero! Not only because of the way you saved your son, but also because of the barriers you broke down for so many people so that they feel self-confident and stand firm and proud when they can’t.
Rivera, 33, went missing on July 8 after renting a boat on Piru Lake with his 4-year-old son, Josey. On Monday, after a one-day search in difficult water conditions, the Joy The body of the star was found. An autopsy revealed the cause of death as drowning and the form was an accident, according to the Ventura County coroner.
“I appreciate and appreciate everything that happened between us to make me wiser and a better person,” Sean continued in his post. “I am still grieving and in shock, I can’t believe this is real. I pray for you and your family and I know that you are caring for and protecting them. Rest in peace Naya.”
Rivera and Sean started dating in 2013 and got engaged later that year. The two first met on Twitter and Sean later appeared on Rivera’s debut single, “Sorry.” The couple broke up in early 2014 amid rumors that the rapper had been unfaithful, a claim he denied.
Many other artists have also paid tribute to Rivera, including her. Joy Co-stars Lea Michele, Chris Colfer, Darren Criss and Heather Morris, along with singers like Demi Lovato, Bebe Rexha and Kehlani.
Read Big Sean’s emotional tribute to Rivera here.
