The entertainment world is in mourning following the tragic death of actor William Rush, best known for playing Josh Stevenson in the BBC school drama Waterloo Road. He was 31 years old.
A Family's Heartbreaking Announcement
The news was shared on 17th December 2025 by his mother, actress Debbie Rush, who portrayed Anna Windass in Coronation Street. In a moving Instagram post, she described her son as their "beautiful baby boy" and said the family's hearts were "completely broken".
She revealed that even in their darkest moment, William had given "the most precious gift of all" by being an organ donor, offering hope and life to other families. Debbie Rush asked for privacy as the family navigates their "unimaginable grief".
A Career Remembered: From Waterloo Road to Coronation Street
William Rush played the role of Josh Stevenson, the son of teacher Tom Clarkson (Jason Done), on Waterloo Road from 2009 to 2013. His character was involved in significant storylines exploring his sexuality, cannabis addiction, and a schizophrenia diagnosis.
His acting career also included a role in BBC One's The Street in 2007, and appearances in episodes of Vera and Coronation Street in 2014.
Co-Stars and Colleagues Pay Emotional Tributes
Denise Welch, who played Steph Haydock in Waterloo Road, gave a heartfelt tribute during an interview on BBC Radio 2 with Scott Mills. She described hearing the news as "the saddest news I could hear" and remembered William as "the loveliest person" from a "fantastic family".
Jason Done, his on-screen father, wrote on Instagram: "Oh Debbie I am deeply shocked. He was a gorgeous human being. I am lost for words."
Other tributes poured in from former co-stars:
- Rebecca Ryan (Vicki MacDonald): "He was such an amazing light!"
- Heather Peace (Nikki Boston): "He was an absolute joy to work with. A beautiful soul."
- Katie McGlynn: "Will brought a smile to everyone’s face and was a very kind soul."
The outpouring of love highlights the profound impact William Rush had on those who worked with him and the deep loss felt across the acting community. His legacy of kindness, both on-screen and through his final act of organ donation, will be remembered.
