Actors Cory Monteith and Naya Rivera attend the Annual GLAAD Media Awards on March 24, in New York City. (2012 Getty Images)
Naya Rivera and Cory Monteith were more than just co-stars on “Glee”— they were family.
Following the tragic death of the 31-year-old actor, whose body was found in a Vancouver hotel room Saturday afternoon, those closest to him are banding together.
"The entire 'Glee' family and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy," Rivera said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
"Cory was and always will be a part of my own family and a good friend. He was a special part of this world and will forever be missed.”
Rivera added that her heart went out to his family and to Lea Michele, “Glee" co-star and Monteith’s real-life girlfriend.
Michele is not commenting herself on the untimely death.
Her rep told People magazine, "We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea's privacy during this devastating time.”
Rivera was one of the many Latinas to share their condolences.
After hearing the news Demi Lovato wrote on Twitter, “#RIPCoryMonteith... So unbelievably tragic. Please #prayforLea..”
Lovato’s best friend Selena Gomez also shared a sweet message on Twitter saying the news "hurts."
"I love you Cory," Gomez wrote in a tweet accompanied by a picture of her and Monteith hugging. "Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
The Canadian-born Monteith, who played star quarterback-turned-singer Finn Hudson on the Fox TV series, was found dead in his room on the 21st floor of the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel on Vancouver's waterfront at about noon Saturday, according to police.
Acting Vancouver Police Chief Doug LePard said there was no indication of foul play and "the cause of death was not immediately apparent."
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