In a touching tribute to the late Naya Rivera, the cast of ‘Glee’ has unveiled an extraordinary gift for fans this holiday season. A previously unreleased song titled “Prayer for the Broken,” sung by the beloved actress, has made its debut on streaming platforms, marking a poignant moment in honoring her memory.
The heartfelt ballad, recorded by Rivera back in 2012, arrived as a special surprise during this year’s Snixxmas charity event hosted by her former co-stars, Kevin McHale and Jenna Ushkowitz. This annual fundraiser, dedicated to supporting LA’s Alexandria House—a cause Rivera deeply cherished—has become a meaningful tradition since her passing in 2020.
For Kevin and Jenna, creating something positive amidst the tragedy was paramount. With Rivera’s family’s permission, they decided to release “Prayer for the Broken,” seeking to honor their dear friend’s legacy. Their efforts culminated in a version featuring Naya’s original vocals, accompanied by touching background vocals from her fellow Glee stars, adding depth and emotional resonance to the piece.
Jenna Ushkowitz expressed the significance of this song, not just for the cast but for Rivera’s devoted fans. “And it’s just a really special song now that, you know, we’ll have and that more importantly that fans will have to hear her voice again,” she remarked.
The song, produced by Isaac Hasson and co-written with Lindy Robbins, showcases Rivera’s striking voice against a backdrop of piano and ethereal harmonies provided by her Glee family. The simple yet profound nature of the cover art—a stunning headshot of the singer—adds to the emotional weight of the release.
During an interview with E! News, Kevin McHale and Jenna Ushkowitz opened up about their intentions behind this heartfelt tribute. “We wanted to do something to honor her, [and] put out something positive from such a horrible, horrible event,” McHale shared.
Naya Rivera, known for her iconic portrayal of Santana Lopez, tragically passed away at the age of 33 in an accidental drowning. Her untimely departure left a void in the hearts of fans worldwide. The release of “Prayer for the Broken” not only celebrates her talent but also serves as a touching reminder of her enduring spirit.
The song’s proceeds will contribute to Alexandria House, continuing Rivera’s legacy of supporting women and children in need—a testament to her unwavering kindness and generosity.
“Prayer for the Broken” stands as a beautiful testament to Naya Rivera’s legacy, a song that encapsulates her talent, warmth, and everlasting impact on those who adored her.
