Josey has been cast in the upcoming drama The Burning Valley, a film written and directed by Evan Coury. The movie recently began filming in Pennsylvania.
In the film, Josey will play a character credited as “Boy,” while his father will play “Father.” The project marks Josey’s first on-screen film role and comes six years after the death of his mother.
The Burning Valley tells the story of a steelworker whose life changes after a local mill announces its closure.
The film explores the impact of industrial decline on a community and follows the character as he reflects on his life and the history of his Rust Belt town.
For Coury, the project also marks his feature-film directorial debut.
Although this will be Josey’s first film appearance, it is not his first experience performing. He previously appeared in a 2024 production of Seussical Jr. in West Virginia, where he took part in a children’s theatre production.
Josey has been raised by his father since Rivera died in July 2020 at the age of 33. Rivera drowned at California’s Lake Piru after taking Josey, who was four years old at the time, on a boating trip. Josey was later found safely aboard the rented boat.
Rivera was best known for playing Santana Lopez on the hit television series Glee, a role she portrayed from 2009 to 2015. She also appeared in shows including The Royal Family, Devious Maids and Step Up: High Water.
Ryan Dorsey has continued to raise Josey while keeping his late former wife’s memory alive. Dorsey has previously spoken about his son’s creativity and interest in different activities, including music and performing.
Josey’s first film role represents another step into the entertainment industry for a child whose parents both built careers as actors. His appearance alongside his father also makes The Burning Valley a notable father-son project.
The film is currently in production, with further details about its release yet to be announced.
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