Former Glee star Dianna Agron recently opened up about her strong connection to her late co-stars during an emotional appearance on the And That’s What You REALLY Missed podcast. The 39-year-old actress, renowned for her role as Quinn Fabray in the beloved musical series, shared heartfelt memories of Cory Monteith, Naya Rivera, and Mark Salling.
Remembering Cory Monteith
Agron recalled Cory Monteith, who tragically passed away at age 31 in 2013 from an accidental drug overdose, with deep admiration and affection. She described him as a “teddy bear,” emphasizing his kindness and profound impact on their lives both on and off set.
“He was this tall, big brotherly presence in all of our lives,” Agron said, reflecting on Monteith’s warm personality. Sharing a fond memory, she recounted how Monteith graciously offered a pair of his sunglasses to her brother during a visit, demonstrating his characteristic thoughtfulness. “That’s who he was—always so amazing and generous.”
Paying Tribute to Naya Rivera and Mark Salling
Agron also spoke about Naya Rivera and Mark Salling, both of whom left a significant legacy despite their tragic endings. Rivera, who drowned in 2020 while saving her young son, was remembered for her vibrant spirit. Salling, who died by suicide in 2018, also held a meaningful place in Agron’s memories.
Expressing her enduring connection to them, Agron said, “I think that tenderness I feel and the memories that I have of who Cory, Naya, and Mark were—as people, as cast members, as our friends and family—are just so vivid. That will never dissipate for me, ever. There’s beauty in that.”
Reuniting with Former Glee Co-stars
Agron’s reflections come as she rekindles old bonds with former co-stars Darren Criss and Lea Michele. The trio recently reunited when Agron and Michele attended Criss’ Broadway performance in Maybe Happy Ending, which earned Criss multiple Tony Awards and made him the first Asian-American actor to win Best Actor in a Musical.
Lea Michele, often a subject of controversy within the cast, shared a photo of the reunion on Instagram, captioning it, “Night out with my beautiful friend from high school to see our former classmate perform on Broadway.”
A Lasting Legacy
Dianna Agron’s heartfelt memories underline the unbreakable bonds formed between the Glee cast members despite the heartbreak of losing three close friends. As fans continue to cherish the show’s legacy, Agron’s words highlight the power of connection and the importance of celebrating the lives of those who’ve left an indelible mark on the world.
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