Dianna Agron Releases Statement on Passing of Co-Star Cory Monteith

Dianna Agron released a statement today on the tragic death of her Glee co-star Cory Monteith. The actor was found dead in his Vancouver hotel room on Saturday, July 13th as a result of an accidental drug overdose. Agron portrayed a love interest of the late actor's character Finn Hudson in Season One of the FOX musical drama.

"I have never lost a friend. In this difficult time, I am leaning on all of the wonderful memories we shared with Cory, how many ways he was able to make us smile," said Agron. "Glee was a gift to all of us. It gave us a family in this industry."

She continues, "We really cut our teeth and grew up on this show. In playing underdogs, we learned that we had dug into the hearts of our viewers and that we could stay there. Cory is so deserving of that place in everyone's hearts. He was one of the most generous and kind people that I have ever met. He had a smart, curious mind, he was an enormous talent. He was loving to not only me but my family."

The actress concludes, "My heart goes out to his family, to Lea, to everyone that is struggling with the loss of our friend. We will miss you Cory. We will always carry a piece of you with us."

Agron will appear as a guest star in the upcoming fifth season of GLEE, scheduled to premiere on FOX September 19th.