William Rush: Waterloo Road actor and Debbie Rush's son dies at 31
William Rush, known for Waterloo Road and appearances in Grange Hill and Vera, dies aged 31; tributes from family and colleagues follow.
British actor William Rush, best known for playing Josh Stevenson on Waterloo Road, has died aged 31. The news was confirmed by his family, who asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Career highlights
Rush began as a child actor, with early appearances in Grange Hill and Shameless. He then joined Waterloo Road, appearing in 168 episodes from 2009 to 2013 as Josh Stevenson.
His TV work also included roles in Casualty and Vera. In 2016, he auditioned for ITV's The X Factor and progressed to the six-chair challenge stage.
Family tributes and organ donation
Debbie Rush, a former Coronation Street star who played Anna Windass, posted a message expressing sorrow and asking for privacy. She highlighted William's decision to be an organ donor, noting his gift of life would help other families.
She described his legacy as one built on kindness and love and asked fans to respect the family's privacy as they cope with their loss.
Celebrities react
Colleagues from Coronation Street and other shows offered support. Sally Dynevor called William a beautiful boy and said she was shocked by the news. Jack P Shepherd, Shobna Gulati, and Chelsea Healey also shared condolences.
Expert comment
A media industry analyst notes that child actors often leave a lasting imprint on audiences, and public tributes reflect their ongoing influence. The family’s emphasis on organ donation may help raise awareness of this life-saving choice.
Summary
William Rush's death at 31 marks the loss of a career that began in childhood, with memorable roles in Waterloo Road and other series. His family has spoken movingly about organ donation, a message that resonates with fans and colleagues alike.
William Rush's passing highlights the lasting impact of early acting careers and the life-saving value of organ donation. Source: BBC News
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