Starz is revitalizing the Step Up franchise in 2021 with a new season of its series starring Christina Milian as lead actress. Milian will fill the role of Collette, originally played by Naya Rivera, who tragically passed away in Summer 2020.
“I am so excited to join the Step Up family,” said Milian. “I know I have massive shoes to fill. Naya was incredible. I hope to honor Naya, her family, friends and fans with a great performance.”
The decision to continue the series with a new actress wasn’t easy, according to the executive producer Holly Sorensen.
“Naya’s death was a terrible loss to our world that we will, frankly, never stop mourning,” said Sorensen. “It was almost impossible to consider there could be someone so graceful and loving who could both help us honor our loss, while also bringing a deep reservoir of talent to our show, in so many areas.”
Based on the Step Up franchise, Step Up: High Water follows the lives of students and teachers at High Water Performing Arts School in Atlanta. The first season premiered on January 31, 2018 and is now entering its third season. Actors attached to return for the new season include singer and songwriter Ne-Yo as Sage Odom, Terrence Green as Rigo Octavio, Faizon Love as Al Baker, Kendra Oyesanya as Poppy Martinez, Eric Graise as King, and Carlito Olivero as Davis Jimenez.
“There is no replacing Naya. Let’s get that straight,” said Ne-Yo. “Her spirit lives on in our memories and every part of what this show is and will be. Christina has big shoes to fill and she knows it, which speaks to her poise and respect as a person and an artist. I’m more than certain of her ability to bring an energy and light to this character that Naya’s fans as well as the rest of the world will love. We’ve welcomed Christina with absolute open arms and have rallied around her with love and support. ”
Production is currently taking place in Atlanta.
