How Santana Went From Background Character to Star of Glee

I guess if there's a topic to this video, it's 'Coming Out'. This is mostly just a Santana Lopez appreciation post. I talk about why I quickly fell in and out of love with Glee and why Santana is one of the few aspects of the show that I continued to love even as everything else went downhill. Rest in Peace Naya Rivera. 💙
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⚡️ Twitter: / tahkawa
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‘Here’s What You Missed on Glee’ by MicTheSnare - • Here's What We Missed ...
'The Cheerleader: How Bring It On Evolved the Archetype' - • The Cheerleader: How B...
0:00 Rise & Fall of Glee
3:47 Santana as Background
7:00 Santana’s Coming Out
13:46 RIP Naya Rivera
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Equipment and stuff (affiliate links)
➤ Microphone: Blue Yeti amzn.to/2ZCt72y
➤ Editing: FCPX on Macbook Pro amzn.to/399xbue
➤ Music: Epidemic Sound: www.epidemicsound.com/referra...

[@sofia-br5qv]

it's funny that santana was supposed originally supposed to be quinn's sidekick when she's the one who actually got a relatively consistent arc and development meanwhile quinn's storyline was basically a completely unintelligible mess after season one

[@denomava5470]

The problem here is that Ryan Murphy wanted a heartless and mean queen B with no redemable traits for the character of Quinn, he was going for the Regina George trope; however, Dianna Agron, being the sweetheart she is, made the character more human, more mature and more loveable with the pass of the time, which pissed Ryan Murphy off. So he put all of his effort in destroying every progress in the story arc of Quinn (with step backs such as her being a Cheerio after giving birth, her going back with Finn, her being a punk, the car accident or her obsesion with being prom queen) therefore, ruining any chance of a stable and organic character development and leaving Quinn as the character with the most messy and over the place storyline.

[@Caprizonica]

@@denomava5470 I think it had to do more that Diana Agron was getting much more beloved and popular than Lea Michele and that was a big no-no. I say this because I really wasn´t watching Glee at the time it aired but I remember that this girl was all over the media, but once I watched an episode, her character had fizzled and almost vanished from the series, which I found strange. I thought that she had gotten too big for the series and that she quit to it.

[@denomava5470]

@@Caprizonica Yeah that it's true but not only for Quinn, but also for Santana. Since the Frenemies episode where her and Rachel have a fight because Santana was going to be the Funny Girl understudy (that was inspired by the real life feud Lea and Naya had), they completely disregarded Santana and now focused on Rachel and how she was going to make it big in LA and all of that jazz. It is so frustrating because we got to see the Brittana wedding (that was a just pure fanservice, because instead of letting them have their own wedding, they put Klaine in it) but we didn't get to see Santana and Britt's future. Glee more like the Rachel Berry show

[@MsJonai]

Also, wasn't Dianna's film career projected to be really successful at the time? I remember everyone was super excited for I Am Number Four and then it kinda bombed; so much to the point that the sequel was scrapped. I think Ryan Murphy was also actively trying to move her out of the show but her big screen acting career didn't do as well as expected at the time.

[@Dudebro123]

Foreigner Ryan Murphy had it out for anyone who challenged Lea’s “spotlight” which Dianna did, but especially Naya. Santana was hands down the most popular female character throughout S3 and S4, perhaps S2 as well. The fact that she was demoted (I think in S5) was simply to stop her shine. I’ll always wonder how much better the show would’ve been if they kept her as a regular in S5-6.

[@saigonvideos9802]

Santana, kurt and quinn made the show

[@urfavdealer2609]

PERIODT

[@nnasjaa]

And Archie and Mercedes where interesting characters to me

[@saigonvideos9802]

@@nnasjaa who is archie? lol

[@TheICGames]

Saigon Videos im assuming they mean artie

[@saigonvideos9802]

@@TheICGames sorry but artie was so boring, his storyline was so meh

[@Despina687]

Also Naya and Heather pushed the creators to take their characters relationship seriously. Instead of a joke or nothing serious. They really cared for their fans and the relationship. Even throughout the series, Santana and Brittany remained friends when they weren’t dating. It was the only relationship that didn’t turn on each other. Eventually getting back together in a healthy way, when they were both ready.

[@isayrivera4074]

❤️❤️❤️

[@taccos3524]

That’s why I really like the break up episode. Despite it being depressing, it’s a great comparison of all the characters and their relationships. Santana valued her relationship with Britney so she broke it off before one of them did something horrible and began to hate the other, while you can see the other relationships in that same episode go through the exact things that they were so scared of going through.

[@fruitbat5113]

Glee was a trash fire, but I loved it. Santana was definitely the best character and the only reason I kept watching. Naya did such a good job playing a complex character (since Santana had a bad case of internalized homophobia), and turned her into a sapphic icon. RIP Naya

[@mintayza7784]

Glee may be a trash fire, but it's OUR trash fire.

[@christinacrespo9119]

💯

[@yeibelyncordero4858]

YAYAYA I got you to 1k likes! 😸🙈

[@DsgSleazy]

Exactly, looking back after season 2 it was so fucking stupid (even the first to seasons were questionable)

[@cheechee6473]

But the characters are so fucking relatable! 😫😫

[@ccss9827]

Naya's recent passing hit me like a ton of bricks. Her being a latina lesbian was way too relatable for me personally, and words cant explain how insane it was to have her be one of the first in a highschool show. We've come a long way since then, yet still have so much to do. Thank you for your voice and work, Naya. You will not be forgotten.

[@feezlfuzzl564]

Doesn't One Day at a Time have a Latina lesbian high schooler now?

[@ccss9827]

@@feezlfuzzl564 Yeah, but Glee came out in 2009 when I was young and never had seen LGBT representation in television before..maybe if it was a stereotype like a gay BFF or butch lesbian with a screwdriver. Also, I'm fairly certain One Day at a Time was cancelled so :( but I've never seen the show

[@cheesecakelasagna]

She died? How?

[@ccss9827]

@@cheesecakelasagna She rented a boat to enjoy a day at the lake with her 4 year old son. Hours later, she never returned her rented boat, and people went looking for her. They found her son alone on the boat. It appears she drowned, and police have said that lake is known to have had a few cases like this. Very tragic. www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2020/07/30/naya-rivera-laid-rest-los-angeles-died-within-minutes/5549708002/

[@cheesecakelasagna]

Cc ss Oh, I'm sorry. I hadn't finished the vid when I commented. She made sure to save her son, that's motherly love. Very sad news though. Thank you for informing me.

[@thatgirlwhoplaysviolin6365]

Santana's back must hurt from carrying the whole show...

[@theanonymous7805]

Fatima Andrea Saenz Vasquez Not really copied. A lot of us just have the same thought ❤️

[@marichatismynameandladynoi1990]

True mostly s4 n 5

[@gleekg848]

Hahaha

[@ihavenoname2569]

In hindsight it makes me angry that Naya didn't get many roles after Glee. She was so so soooo talented. Screw holywood.

[@acharmingbind2314]

Well, she actually tried pursuing a career in music but received negative feedback because her release song was superpop/not at all what we could expect for her voice. Also, she commited to her personal life, she got married and then pregnant, and in between she was involved in some tabloid news (domestic violence, self-image issues, etc).

[@dominiquepadilla1427]

ACharmingBind yeah but lea managed to have 3 albums that all flopped, meanwhile Naya had one single that flopped and her album got canceled

[@acharmingbind2314]

@@dominiquepadilla1427 but Michelle got up to 3 albums without getting into scandals like Rivera did. It was more a PR and marketing issue, Michelle had more conections, she was more famous, she was Murphy's protegee and continued to appear on tv even when she was only portraying the same character over and over, while Rivera became a tabloid personality rather than a musical one. Breaking up with Big Sean was also bad for her career, she went all "he stole from me" so she lost her protegee status. Also, Michelle had a full album ready when her single went live and a full music video, while Rivera didn't. PR can really mess up with a career in the industry if you don't control your own narration, and Michelle did that really well at the begining, while Rivera was taken by tabloids and kept feeding them with more news (Big Sean's break-up, the Big Sean dating Arianna Grande/the Kardashian lifestyle she adopted, excesive surgeries, domestic violence, surprise wedding, etc).

[@yomarisol]

she was with bad advice and anyway she chose just bad men, how is possoble that his husband that know how famous she was, he did it, put on tabloide news of familiar violence I dont know , if is true or not but she had a carreer and a son of both for love to her he must to fix it in private way, now he is miss her uhh... how would be the world if she had arrive to be a famous singer like Jennifer lopez because in all latinamerica she was very know, she coming from latin family could be alive? oh anyway RIP Naya

[@quentincarey]

ACharmingBind I just want to say that the abuse scandal is not true. Ryan dropped the charges and said that at no time was he touched by Naya.

[@thebilliespace]

Real talk: Most of my favorite Glee covers are the ones with Naya in them. Her unique voice helped me deal with my forgettable voice and reminded me that I sing because I love doing it, not because I'm trying to outshine everyone. RIP Naya Rivera.

[@theninoshow]

True I believe Valerie is the most streamed glee song behind don’t stop believing

[@christinacrespo9119]

💯

[@plantscat7605]

I think Santana's and Mercedes' voice are the only ones that doesn't annoy me. Everyone's are just so cheesy. Can't stand most of Rachel's songs (but some of them are good) and Quinn's songs are so cringey

[@thebilliespace]

@@theninoshow I don't know anyone that doesn't enjoy her version of Valerie. I prefer it to the original.

[@thebilliespace]

@@plantscat7605 I do love Quinn's voice cause it reminds me of my own; very soft and sweet. What's funny is that whenever I played Glee songs at work, my coworkers would always prefer Santana's songs. She's that iconic.

[@deniselin7144]

santana really did encapsulate the best thing about glee: its hilarious, random comedy and its touching emotional drama. the first season of glee had so much potential for every character, but as the seasons went by they threw it all away.

[@VioletEmerald]

All of this!

[@myajanette]

I love seasons 1-3, but seasons 4-6 are just.... I don’t even want to talk about those seasons

[@marichatismynameandladynoi1990]

S4 and s5 ooo bad but s6 is watchable tbh

[@agnessofiacastrocarvalho774]

5 and 6 are THE WORST

[@christopherverdery1294]

@2:07 "He's a genius at starting new shows, but nurturing those shows effectively for years is a different story." This perfectly encapsulates it, and it's not even about the abandonment; it's the half measure of care that comes after.

[@mystic_mimi21]

He is like the jj abrams of tv

[@alex_n215]

Miranda Mizen // that is probably the most accurate description of ryan murphy.

[@maddiecrosby311]

it rings true in his work after the start of glee as well. the first three seasons of american horror story were amazing; excellent storylines and very engaging. from season four on, the amount of effort continued to decrease. as someone who was an avid fan of ahs, i’ve stopped watching completely. ryan murphy is very talented, but as the number of his projects continue to grow, the quality of his later seasons declines. i worry that his most recent show, ratched, will follow this pattern.

[@islandrebelmakeup4653]

Santana has the most stage presence of any of the characters. In a stage ensemble scene my eyes immediately go to her.

[@VioletEmerald]

This tribute to Naya's talent almost made me cry. It's really making me appreciate Santana even more

[@TropeAnatomy]

💙

[@margaretnassuna]

same same same :(

[@amariafields3270]

Honestly naya was made for Santana. Can’t see anyone else playing the part

[@theanonymous7805]

She created Santana ❤️ Her relationship with Brittany was supposed to be a joke but Naya pushed them to make it serious 🥺

[@florence3612]

i think it's more like santana was made for naya. the writers really did take a lot from the actors in the show- in jokes, personality, quirks, life experience... so much of what made up santana came from naya, and she'll live on forever like that

[@sheridancourt9151]

I personally feel that if they were done a spin off of Nayas character and Heathers character it would’ve been a hit even bigger than glee.

[@Despina687]

That’s probs what the creators of glee were afraid of 😂. Cause honestly I think it would have been a big success especially cause we didn’t see Brittana’s future in the flash forward, we just know they are still together.

[@Dudebro123]

Ryan Murphy has a hard on for Lea Michele and Darren Criss. He would never give opportunities like that to any of the other Glee stars besides them.

[@albieemery2828]

I feel like Naya was perfect for this role. I couldn’t even imagine any other people for this role. Also, so many other roles would be been great for Naya, including Anita in the new west side story and a character in In The Heights. Naya was such a talent, and it makes me feel so heart broken that she won’t get to live out her full life

[@allentzlu]

And Katniss Everdeen for The Hunger Games. I can just imagine how amazing she would've been in that role

[@user-nx1vh4ej9q]

thats because naya literally made the role.

[@albieemery2828]

Vida No negativity. Just love 💓

[@theanonymous7805]

Albie Emery She basically created Santana herself ❤️ They weren’t being negative.

[@littlewomenchannel]

You put in to words why I struggled with later seasons. Consistency in writing is essential to keep any show alive.

[@TyRendition]

Which is why One piece the anime is so loved, always remained consistent with the rules it introduced. I don't know why Glee went from being a show about a outcast of talented kids to the Rachel show.

[@mmymmy315]

Ty I hated that Rachel became THE main character in the later seasons, I couldn't be bothered finishing the show.

[@pabloaulestia6310]

Ty it’s because Ryan Murphy has a very weird obsession with Leah Michelle, and I’m not to deny her talent but in both glee and scream queens Ryan forces Leah’s character on the plot way too much in glee arguably most of the character by season two had a more interesting arch and the actors really make them likable but he keep focusing on Rachel,in scream queens literally her character was the most boring even the candle girl was more interesting but he forced the attention on her and it was hard when everyone else is more charismatic because of the talent of the actors portraying them

[@sidneyshiny]

The show was meant to be based around finn and rachel, but ever since the loss it stayed the rachel show, then it became the blaine and rachel until the end so. You can tell how much rachel and blaine were developed compared to anyone else.

[@alessandra0109]

I rlly love glee, and rachel too, the thing that i didn't like about the 4-6 seasons of glee, it's because they lost everything, like trying to put new caracters, that copy the originals and things like this

[@babsybrrrnz]

Glee really did struck gold with Naya(Santana) & Heather(Brittany). Heather was just supposed to teach them the Single Ladies but they found out she was great at giving one liners

[@trinaq]

By the end of this show, I was mainly just watching for Santana, and her relationship with Brittany.💘👭 Rest I'm peace, Naya, you will be greatly missed! 💔😭

[@albieemery2828]

Honestly same. I didn’t watch for Santana, but looking back, she was my second favourite (behind Brittany). Also, I just wanted to see how Brittana happened. Love you Naya

[@graceyl.195]

Addams family pfp :0000

[@albieemery2828]

Gracey L. Ikr I played Pugsley in my school production

[@graceyl.195]

Albie Emery Cool! One of my dream roles is Wednesday

[@jessinthecomments]

Never been a fan of the Britney character, idk that character just always annoyed me lol. But I did enjoy Santana.

[@nolynnoel1032]

the moment we first knew just how talented santana was is when she got the small bridge solo in Bad Romance. she KILLED IT

[@plantscat7605]

That growl omygod! I'm pretty convinced I am a lesbian when I was in college. I was so addicted to Santana and Naya

[@faberry]

I remember that was the first time they finally showcased her voice and I was blown away. It really showed how talented Naya was.

[@williamcosme2281]

She will go down in history as an iconic part of Glee.

[@princessmanitari4993]

And an iconic person in the journeys of many people discovering their sexualities. ❤

[@lianabankz8187]

Santana literally made the show still watchable after season 3. Watching her grow, and embrace who she was, was so fascinating. She also help me figure out who I am and I will forever love Glee because of her. Also I loved how Santana always saw how smart Brittany was and was never rude to her, and Brittany always saw her kindness. Thanks Naya, Rest In Peace❤️🕊

[@kindsoul8120]

Naya Rivera has been acting since her toddler days, so I'm not surprised she is the most loved actor on the show!

[@limelchert]

Great video. That’s exactly how I feel.

[@TropeAnatomy]

thank you!

[@gabrielzzz2492]

simm🖤

[@monstroazul3989]

Lilian!!

[@GuilhermeSantos-sd4ow]

lilian sua maravilhosa

[@edmarklowelldelossantos4952]

So sorry if this will offend. But can I ask: so does this mean or confirm that Tina's character is poor not just because of the writers' fault, but also because of Jenna Ushkowitz's not-so-great portrayal and performance of it? If she had played "Tina" excellently and with utmost commitment, the character would not have faded? I always have had this suspicion.

[@JefersonSantos-bt1ef]

she was the big revelation of the show. and not only for fans, but to the cast itself... at the end, she almost stole the audience from predictable Rachel. Lea was talented and the favorite of Ryan, but Naya got the crowd and critics aclamation 🖤💎 R.I.P. queen of Glee.

[@gfyourself]

"there was no evidence of injury or intoxication" an absolutely tragic death that never should have happened. my heart goes out to her and her son. may she rest in peace. i'm so thankful that she was a successful and loving mother and am sure that he'll be well taken care of in her absence. she saved his life while she lost her own. thank god she had the presence of mind to put her baby back into the boat. this is so sad. RIP.

[@carolyn3742]

Santana had the most growth than any other character. Naya carried Glee. Her voice is unforgettable

[@marnedutoit1182]

Naya carried this show on her back after season 3. Season 4 was still okey.. She still got an okey amount of screen time, but 5 & 6 was just a joke. The whole show revolved around Berry. I started to skip through the show, just to be able to get to Santana scenes (which was the most funny, most well performed by an amazing actress and the best monologs ever). I wish Ryan Murphy would've realized the talent of Naya, which deserved much more attention and sreen time that was given. We love you Naya Rivera ❤️ such a bright light went out on the 8'th of July. You will always be missed and never forgotten. Thank you for the inspiration you were to so many fans, regardless of their race or sexual orientation. "keep it movin" 🦋

[@AndreaRuizCa]

I was always so happy to see Santana. As a Latina it was so cool to see ourselves represented in her chatacter. She will always be missed.

[@katherinewinters5674]

This slaps after her death, and honestly, we can't keep pretending that a lot of talent hasn't been overlooked because they weren't the right colour. Sometimes, I wonder if Hollywood were actually diverse instead of pandering to diversity i.e. putting a silent minority character in the background or making them so ignorant they could've been replaced with a talking sponge and no one would notice. Could we get better media than mediocrity? Ignore my musings if you care to.

[@MsJonai]

That is ABUNDANTLY clear. Especially with the Glee cast.

[@mars5107]

Totally agree. If talent was the deciding factor she would've been the most successful Glee actor after the show ended.

[@---un5mt]

Exactly! Even though Glee was very "diverse", season 1 focuses on all the white characters.. it's not during and after season 2 that minority characters have more character development.

[@thescallytrader]

Stop reducing everything into Identity Politics, you sound pathetic.

[@mars5107]

@@thescallytrader 😂😂😂😘

[@bigbori8716]

It doesn’t feel like she’s dead, yes she will never move or breathe again but her spirit and soul is truly alive

[@darkmagicianmagi8237]

I Jaky really love how we all are in agreement that Miss Santana Lopez carried this show on her back.

[@wholetmeonhere]

I am really sad about Naya’s passing, but while I’m mourning, I’m also remembering Naya (and Santana) in a positive light! Santana continues to be one of my favorite characters on Glee. She never fails to make me laugh. I love you, Naya. I’ll see you again. ❤️

[@marqsworldd]

One of my favorite things about her character, is when she randomly started saying “Wanky”. Every time she says it I die😭💕

[@theanonymous7805]

Same 😭 And when she told people she’s from “Lima Heights Adjacent”

[@marqsworldd]

the anonymous yesss😭

[@jesusgarcia5197]

Her and Quinn were the only ones I loved on the show not gonna lie. Rest in peace Naya

[@niavheffernan1661]

Yes her Quinn and Brittany though

[@nekotaemin2983]

We lost Naya too soon. I would of loved to see her in more shows. Tbh if she had been a solo artist afterward she would of succeeded. Rest In Peace Naya your character in glee was so powerful and meaningful.

[@user-ko3vf2sy8p]

Well said

[@eggmeboy]

alternate title idea: Santana is the Real Star of Glee. great video! rip Naya :(

[@offbeatkiki]

I did my first rewatch of this show a few months ago and Naya's death hit me so hard. I grew to love Santana's character so much and her coming out storyline was so important to me. :( Great video.

[@Laramaria2]

Burt Hummel and Santana were the best characters... And Naya was one of the most talented people in Glee!

[@heyafindfun]

Totally agree, theyre my fav characters of the show

[@jennifer_moss]

What an amazing tribute to Naya and her work as Santana. Naya will never be forgotten by us Gleeks and her son will have so many amazing tributes to his mom to look at in the future and he will see just how much good she gave to the world, how much she loved what she did, and how much she loved her son ❤

[@TropeAnatomy]

💙

[@airacoon]

"One main exception to this. A character that didn't deteriorate as the show progressed but instead got better. A storyline that you could invest yourself in because it had a clear progression. Someone that maintained the balance I talked about. One that is over the top and satirical but also grounded an real when she needed to be." This vid is so accurate. Thank you so much. 💙 Long Live, Naya Rivera.

[@onlyfuentezzy6608]

overtime lea started disliking naya more and more because santana’s screen time was almost just enough as rachels (rachel was the worst character lol) and lea became jealous naya was way more talented and more successful than she was, naya had the better voice, the better looks AND persona and everything in between.. lea envied her to where naya was cut out of most of season 6 because ryan murphy favored the main character which sucks because naya’s character made such a huge impact on millions of people’s lives. may naya’s beautiful soul rest in paradise. ❤️

[@hayl3y432]

I'm suing rachel- I wanted my brittana 👁👄👁🤜🙎‍♀️

[@melissam597]

Lea Michele is pathetic 🙄

[@GeorgiaAndrea]

Lea really lived up to her reputation as the actual mean girl.

[@bryanalvareeezy7578]

Santana Lopez was the only reason I watched Glee. I knew she was special ever since season 1 when she hardly had lines and was just a background character. He story and herself was everything. I hope wherever Naya Rivera is at, she feels happy and free. RIP queen 💔

[@Amakiseul]

SO many people forget Glee is satire. Like chile, WE KNOW HOW STUPID IT IS, THATS THE POINT. Can't agree more with what you said about the balance of the satirical side of Glee and the part of it that addressed important social issues and connected with the audience while doing so. I will not disagree with Glee being trash season 4-6, but people need to recognize how much this show has done for young LGBTQ+ people and others who just struggled accepting who they are. Glee strived off of connecting with outcasted kids who didnt feel comfortable being alt, gay, campy, theatre, and all the other things. A whole generation of people accepted and embraced themselves because Santana, Blaine, and Brittany did (the list goes on) All that being said, rest in peace Naya. Thank you for your amazing portrayal of Santana. I cant imagine my life without this portrayal. I wouldve been lost, scared, in denial. I'm forever grateful and I feel Naya's influence every single day in my acceptance and pride of being myself.

[@mollyfoxxx]

Naya was the most talented cast member and I loved how she went from swaying sidekick to the most interesting and complex character and an LGBT icon. I have to believe the stories about Leah being intimidated by her talent and thus treating her like sh*t are true.

[@lesynuca1991]

What I adore about Santana's character was that she can captivate the viewers in every possible way she can. You either love her or hate her. There's nothing in between. She was such a dynamic character that you can't help but notice her presence. Naya did an incredible job in portraying Santana, w/o her we will never have a character that will be remembered as an icon and inspiration to many teens out there.

[@victoriazzz8466]

my heart breaks for naya and her family. she really made a true impact on the ppl who watched glee. rest peacefully, naya 💔

[@handsomemahlambi]

The had so many opportunities to make Quinn’s story in season 3 bigger but didn’t

[@BAMOORE94]

Mercedes as well

[@bored3847]

B MOORE Yeah they really did Mercedes dirty, at least she got to save the day with her vocals.

[@bored3847]

They literally sabotaged Quinn, first mistake was making her some kinda punk girl and the forgetting it ever existed one episode later. The thing with Glee is that nothing was long term, they didn’t mention if Quinn has some kind of relationship with Beth after S4 and she never had a real ending in S6.

[@katelynpringle5506]

Santana was one of the saving graces of Glee because she represents everyone's deep-seated and instinctual desire to fucking deck Rachel Berry into the ground. (at least for the first 3 seasons, which is all I watched)

[@lesynuca1991]

Believe it or not Santana's character arc saved glee from becoming a total joke in the latter seasons.

[@psydoof]

She’s the only reason I watched Glee

[@theanonymous7805]

same I would have been stopped watching if she had not been on because Rachel was so annoying.

[@plantscat7605]

Yes. I started watching on season 3 (back when it was aired) after hearing a Naya cover. She is so good! Then watched from season 1 to "catch up" and I was so pissed because she was just a background character back then. I am rewatching Glee again from the beginning and yeah, Rachel is so annoying. My husband always asks me to fast forward on her singing (except if it is a group) and her very annoying character.

[@bohemelavie1]

I really disliked Santana back when the show first aired, however I think that had a lot to do with my inability to accept my own sexuality rather then the character itself because when I rewatched the show again last year, having had plenty of time to come to terms with myself, she was the stand out and her storyline just hit differently and meant a lot. So many of the minor cast on that show deserved better. But what a miracle it was that Naya was able to break free from being in the background!

[@mela1736]

I pretty much feel the same way except i didn’t dislike Santana at first i even liked her even tho she was a bitch, i think i just unconsciously ignored her story to not think about it and i could only see the funny bitchy cheerleader with the best lines ever written on the show😂 But let’s be honest Naya still deserved better... I miss her so much💔 I hope she’s in a better place now watching over her son josey🕊

[@felixmunoz3668]

She’s also the one who pushed for the lesbian storyline for her character. She wanted that representation in the show.

[@chloepemberton6370]

Santana was the best character on that show and the only reason I kept watching. She carried that show RIP Naya you will be missed 💔💔💔

[@theatrekid3567]

How he can say fondue for two in a serious tone is beyond me

[@meisydrums]

I fell in love with Santana ever since her first line “get a room”, I could feel she was gonna be so special, I’m so glad I grew up watching Naya on this show, she taught me so much and I’m forever grateful of her, I still cannot believe she’s gone 🥺 this video really broke me, thank you!

[@mollyfoxxx]

Read Chris Colfer and Dianna Agron’s tributes to her, they made me sob uncontrollably.

[@gisellec5504]

She has always been my favorite after season 1. Best covers, best voice, best character, best actriz literally could not be better. As a bi latina women that used to be angry all the time I really relate to her. Rest In Peace Naya Rivera.

[@Dudebro123]

Naya made the show. She was overall the most talented one. I will never understand how she didn’t become the female lead especially in S4. A true talent gone from this world. RIP Naya.

[@miel6051]

Amber is the most talented one tho. Don’t reach.

[@Dudebro123]

miel I mean no, because overall Naya is the most talented and well rounded. She was a better actress and a better dancer than Amber. I would even argue Naya is a better vocalist, but that is debatable. But when it comes to overall talent, especially on Glee, Naya was the clear winner.

[@talenawilson76]

TealTuesdaze So nice to see someone feel the exact same way. I love Amber and its arguable, but I think Santana was the most talented. She had a unique voice and she just brought something special to songs she sang that kind of made it her own. And her performances were the best. She was just full package. Triple threat. She could do it all and beautifully.

[@davidadu8559]

Naya was an amazing actor, hope she and Corey can both rest easy

[@tishsun5874]

Ty for the great tribute to naya. Naya brought her Santana role over the roof. You couldn't help but root for a villain character. Aside from the fact that so many people like me related to her coming out storyline and had helped tremendously in our own rainbow life journeys. Thank you Naya Rivera you had been a great joy to watch and an inspiration.

[@angelagenova7663]

Santana’s back must hurt from carrying the whole show

[@ichimaruzero9697]

Santana was the only one who delivered fun scenes and interesting performances after season 3. The show used her as comical relief as opposite for drama without realising the drama was not that good. I only kept watching it for her.

[@handsomemahlambi]

They gave the mean girl to Santana (Naya) from Quinn (Diana) bc she could pull it off better and actually had the powerhouse vocals to eventually rival Rachel (Lea🤮)

[@jcmoon619]

Santana and Naya will always have a special place in my heart. She is the reason why I watched Glee and kept watching it even when it got worse and worse. Santana is the first lesbian character I saw on tv and yeah even if glee was a mess what santana gave to me growing up is something i will never forget. She really was the best thing about the show

[@leidyveramatos2551]

She was a star, we can look at the sky and she's there shining on us, the world lost a big one, I still don't believe it😞💔

[@ailish3012]

all i could think of throughout this episode is how beautiful Naya and Diana (Quinn) are and what a tragic loss it is that she is no longer on this earth:(

[@davidlouisjohng.escoto8257]

I liked Naya Rivera's role here in Glee, so sad she died at an early age

[@mollyfoxxx]

Santana has and always will be my favorite character. She’s the only reason I finally decided to watch the entire series and I found out about her being missing as I was watching her perform Songbird and her other solos on KZbin. It was the most eerie coincidence, just like how I had tweeted how crazy it would be if they found Naya on the same day Corey died 7 years later, then an hour later, they did. I hope they’re together now. 🕊🤍

[@m1agonorrhea]

naya was literally the only reason i kept going after season 3. season 4 just plain sucked but those small moments with her made it watchable

[@citruslatafolia877]

Rest in peace, Naya x

[@rascal8580]

I only started watching the show because of santana she intrigued me a lot and I fell in love with her instantly.But watching her character development throughout the seasons is what keeps me watching till the end. Like santana’s character made me feel more comfortable with myself and my sexuality. I don’t think anyone could’ve done a better job at playing santana than naya. also rip naya I miss you sm 🕊🖤

[@joharilol]

this captures her character perfectly. shes literally the only reason i watched past season 3

[@Trinitylouissaint]

Honestly Santana,Brittnay,Sue, Mercedes, and Quinn were my favorite characters honestly they carried the show for me especially Brittana

[@krezcelyborja9334]

Glee won't last that long without Santana.. hell, i cant imagine glee without her.

[@shadyjoanneboots]

I really did end up only sticking around for season 4 and onwards all because of Santana. The show became so unbearable and shitty but I was so invested in her character

[@vaulira]

i love santana so much and im damn sad that she passed away, glee season 1 to 3 are one of the best seasons and it was serious and had an emotion that the others didn’t have, santana carried the whole so much after season 3 shes honestly the reason i rewatched season 6, shes such a role model for me cause she was latinx, lgbtq+ and sassy and thats who i take inspiration from i honestly will miss her, rest in peace naya ur talent was beyond amazing and your legacy will live on forever ❤️

[@justanotherfangirl9929]

Santana was the absolute best. Rest in peace Naya. I wish you could feel all the love we have for you

[@nikko7117]

When they did Madonna back season 1 that's where I fell in love with Santana.

[@nyriekathrynhadnot2015]

She had the best lines, was so easy to watch, had the best story line, and was all around talented in all areas. This story felt less about Rachelle and more about Santana by the time it was all done.

[@taylah4057]

rest in peace naya. we miss you so so much

[@cesjen5460]

I remember the first time I heard her singing voice in a Glee song. It was the Madonna episode. Her lines in "Like A Virgin" blew me away. She became my favorite character instantly.

[@Gayu4567]

I'm currently watching Glee and I'm on S3, and literally the only reason I'm continuing at the moment is to see more Santana 😭

[@rebbylaurente5514]

Best tribute for Naya. RIP

[@jellyrcw12]

This legit is the best defense of Santana I've ever seen and just reminds me why I'm a stan all over again. I LIVED on tumblr for the Glee and Britanna fandom. She meant so much to me and Naya will be missed forever

[@tazloon]

The first time Santana had a lead vocal was when she shared leads on "Like A Virgin" , i remember this because i remember being blown away by her singing , i couldn't understand why she hadn't had any leads before that, next time was when she shared vocals on Lady Ga Ga's "Fine Romance", and again blew it out of the water, what a talent Naya was and i agree, she was the reason i stayed with the show till the end.....💜

[@SUPERCORPSunday]

You make me feel like a virgin omg i was shock her voice is amazing why his she singing only background , and also she make that scene so sexes and hot i feel in love with her.

[@futurecantsay2769]

Okay but let’s be real SANTANA KILLED “don’t rain on my parade” like she did it better then Rachel and you can’t change my mind period !!

[@oseremhen9075]

PERIOD, that performance was and will forever be effortless perfection.

[@Trixee39]

TBH I don't know how the director didn't realize he'd seen Santana at the diner before! Wasn't it "Hard Day's Night" that they sang?

[@wendywenz8725]

I love and miss Naya.

[@florence3612]

this was so beautifully and perfectly expressed, summed up every feeling and opinion i couldn't find the words for. thank you so much for making it

[@cometboifever2294]

Santana was and will always be my favorite character

[@SaberNezumi]

I didn't watch the series after season three ended, just 'cause I feel like they showrunners were telling almost the same plot but with different characters. Nevertheless, I kept up with Santana's character (and her love story with Brittany) 'cause it was a joy to watch Naya Rivera perform and act. Thnak you for this video. I'll always be thankful to her for sharing her talent with us.

[@MorbidPet]

Same

[@MorbidPet]

Thank you for this Santana Lopez appreciation video

[@magaliduran9435]

This video is AMAZING. Is one of those i will keep save forever cause is such a great tribute to Naya and her beautiful character. I honestly would like to her son could watch this video someday! I miss Naya everyday. She literally touch my life and i will never forget it. She is my Nangel now ❤😇

[@MiamiSpartan1]

Santana kept me interested in the show. Amazing voice

[@nicoleharris1130]

This was a beautiful video and a wonderful tribute to the criminally underrated talent of Naya Rivera. May she rest in power.

[@snortobortoowo5420]

Brittany and Santana were the OG Adora and Catra

[@Gladiva19]

The dynamic between Catra and Adora is quite different though. Just because they're both lesbian relationships doesn't mean they can only have one personality or type of relationship.

[@snortobortoowo5420]

@@Gladiva19 can you stop trying to explain lesbian relationships to an actual lesbian? Just let us have our rep and stop nit picking.

[@natinati422]

@@snortobortoowo5420 girl they didnt nit pick or take away ur rep its rlly not that deep, they were right lmao the dynamic is different even if catra can be a bitch and adora can be a dumbass

[@capylost]

wym lmao? britney and santana’s relationship dynamic is sO different from adora and catra.

[@snortobortoowo5420]

@@natinati422 honestly just stfu

[@zutalors960]

I really agree. Love Santana. She became a good lead singer but she's also a killer backup.

[@darrencriss5529]

I started watching Glee in 2010 for Britney Spears tribute. I was in love with "Me Against The Music" cover. Naya Rivera catch my attention. I started watching Glee for her. ❤

[@faithogiee]

Naya Rivera was such a beautiful person inside and out. Her talent shown the brightest out of all of them. She was a force to be reckoned with. There will never be another one like her. Never. May Her Soul Rest In Perfect Peace, Amen. ❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏🕊🕊🕊🕊

[@puenteskl2859]

Wow! This video is the best I've seen in explaining the rise and fall of the Glee writing and story lines. Also, the best tribute to Naya and her character Santana. I'm sure Naya's family and Naya herself would've loved this video. Very well done!

[@TropeAnatomy]

Thank you so much 😊

[@elisafc4492]

Thanks for making this, putting into words our thoughts about why she means so much to us, she and her character made undoubtedly a change for this show and to a lot of us, she deserves all the tributes in social media so hopefully future generations wont miss her talent as an actress and her brightness as human being.