Actor William Rush, best known for his recurring role as josh stevenson on the BBC drama Waterloo Road, has died unexpectedly at the age of 31, his family announced Wednesday. The news of Rush’s passing has prompted an immediate outpouring of grief from colleagues and fans of the popular series, which aired from 2009-2013 and continues to resonate with audiences. His mother, former Coronation Street actress debbie Rush, shared the news via Instagram, highlighting her son’s final act of generosity through organ donation.
William Rush, known for his role on the BBC drama *Waterloo Road*, has died at the age of 31, his family announced.
Rush portrayed student Josh Stevenson in 168 episodes of the popular series, which aired between 2009 and 2013. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief from former co-stars and fans, highlighting the show’s lasting impact on British television.
Before *Waterloo Road*, Rush appeared in other British television staples including *Grange Hill* and *Shameless*. Later in his career, he took on roles in *Casualty* and *Vera*.
His mother, Debbie Rush, a former *Coronation Street* actress, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram on Wednesday, stating, “As a family, our hearts are completely broken.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Rush also pursued a career in music, auditioning for the ITV talent show *The X Factor* in 2016 and reaching the “six-chair challenge” round.
Debbie Rush, who played Anna Windass on *Coronation Street* for a decade, described her son as “our beautiful baby boy,” adding, “There are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss.”
In a moving tribute, she also revealed William’s decision to become an organ donor.
“Even in our darkest moment, William gave the most precious gift of all,” she said.
“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.”
“We kindly ask that our privacy be respected as we navigate this unimaginable grief. William will always be loved, always missed, and forever in our hearts.”
Fellow *Coronation Street* cast members offered their support online. Sally Dynevor expressed her shock, calling William a “beautiful boy.” Jack P Shepherd wrote, “Terrible to read that Debbie. Devastating news, thinking of you all,” and Shobna Gulati shared, “Sending you all the love, I’m so sorry and my deepest sympathies.”
Chelsee Healey, who also starred in *Waterloo Road*, posted: “My heart breaks for you all, I’m so so sorry.”
