William Rush, the actor best known for his portrayal of Josh Stevenson on the BBC One drama Waterloo Road, has died at the age of 31, his family announced this week. The news, which broke on December 18, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the British television industry and left family, friends, and fans grappling with the sudden loss of a familiar and beloved face from their screens.
Rush’s mother, Debbie Rush—herself a well-known actress from her decade-long role as Anna Windass on Coronation Street—shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, writing, “Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December. As a family, our hearts are completely broken, and there are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss.” The family has not disclosed the cause of William’s untimely death, and they have asked for privacy as they navigate what Debbie described as “unimaginable grief.”
Born on July 6, 1994, to Debbie and Andrew Rush, William was one of three children in a close-knit family. He grew up in Manchester, where his early interest in acting was nurtured by his headteacher, Cherie Rivero, at Bamford Academy in Rochdale. Inspired by Rivero to audition for a school play, William found his calling and later honed his craft at the Manchester School of Acting.
William’s professional acting career began early. As a child, he landed the role of Ali Duncan in the TV drama Grange Hill, appearing from 2005 to 2007. He went on to secure parts in popular British shows such as Shameless, Casualty, and Vera. But it was his role as Josh Stevenson in Waterloo Road—a character he played in 168 episodes between 2009 and 2013—that made him a household name. The show, a staple of British television, followed the lives of students and staff at a troubled comprehensive school, and William’s character was at the heart of several challenging storylines, including those dealing with sexuality, addiction, and mental health.
Following his stint on Waterloo Road, William continued to act, appearing in Coronation Street alongside his mother in 2014, and taking on roles in other dramas. In 2016, he tried his hand at music, auditioning for ITV’s The X Factor. He made it as far as the “six-chair challenge,” a testament to his versatility and willingness to embrace new opportunities in the entertainment world.
Debbie Rush’s tribute on Instagram was as moving as it was revealing, highlighting not just William’s career but his generosity and spirit. She wrote, “Even in our darkest moment, William gave the most precious gift of all. Through being an organ donor, he has given hope and life to other families, thinking of others right to the very end. His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy.”
The announcement of William’s death prompted an outpouring of grief and support from across the British entertainment community. Fellow Coronation Street star Sally Dynevor commented, “Oh Debbie, I’m so shocked to hear this news. Sending you so much love. What a beautiful boy he was.” Jack P Shepherd, another co-star, added, “Terrible to read that Debbie. Devastating news, thinking of you all.” Brooke Vincent, known for her role as Sophie Webster, wrote, “Oh Debbie. I am so sorry for your loss!! I’m sending you all so much love.”
Tributes also flowed in from William’s Waterloo Road colleagues. Katie McGlynn, who played Jodie “Scout” Allen, remarked, “Debbie, I am so sorry to you all. Will brought a smile to everyone’s face and was a very kind soul. Thinking of you & sending so much love to you all.” Chelsee Healey, another castmate, expressed her sorrow: “My heart breaks for you all, I’m so so sorry.” The sheer volume and warmth of these messages speak to the impact William had on those who worked with him, both on and off set.
For many viewers, William Rush’s legacy will be forever tied to his portrayal of Josh Stevenson—a role that resonated with audiences for its honesty and vulnerability. His character’s journey through difficult themes such as coming out, substance abuse, and mental illness was handled with sensitivity and depth, earning praise from fans and critics alike. According to Radio Times, his performances “brought a smile to everyone’s face and was a very kind soul.”
Behind the scenes, William was remembered as a gentle, thoughtful person who put others first. Debbie Rush’s words about his decision to become an organ donor have struck a chord with many: “Through being an organ donor, he has given hope and life to other families, thinking of others right to the very end.” The family’s request for privacy at this time has been widely respected, with friends, colleagues, and fans alike expressing support and understanding.
William is survived by his parents, Debbie and Andrew, and his siblings, Poppy and Tom. The Rush family’s grief is shared by a broader community of viewers who grew up watching William on screen, as well as by those who knew him personally. His journey from a school play in Rochdale to national television fame is a testament to his talent and determination, but it is his compassion and generosity that those closest to him are choosing to remember most.
As the entertainment world pauses to mourn William Rush, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of kindness. His performances will live on through reruns and memories, but his final act of giving—through organ donation—ensures that his legacy will continue to touch lives in ways both seen and unseen.
In the days since the announcement, fans have taken to social media to share their favorite moments from William’s career, celebrate his achievements, and offer condolences to his family. While the cause of his death remains private, the impact of his life and work is clear. William Rush will be remembered not just as a talented actor, but as someone who, in the words of his mother, “will always be loved, always missed, and forever in our hearts.”
