British television is mourning the sudden loss of Waterloo Road actor William Rush, who died Wednesday, December 17, at just 31 years old.
The heartbreaking news was shared by his mother, actress Debbie Rush — best known for her role on Coronation Street— who confirmed her son’s passing in a deeply emotional Instagram post.
“As a family, our hearts are completely broken,” she wrote alongside a smiling photo of William. “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.”
She added, “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.”
No cause of death has been revealed.
Rush became a familiar face to U.K. audiences as Josh Stevenson on Waterloo Road, appearing in more than 160 episodes from 2009 to 2013. He also made appearances on Grange Hill, Shameless, Casualty, and Vera.
Tributes from fellow actors flooded social media following the news. Waterloo Road co-star Chelsee Healey wrote, “Oh Debbie, my heart breaks for you all. Rest in peace, Will.” Coronation Street alum Catherine Tyldesley added, “I’m heartbroken for you all. I’m sending so much love and strength.”
William Rush is survived by his parents, Debbie and Andrew Rush, his sister Poppy, and his brother Tom.
Fans have since flooded his social media pages with messages of love and remembrance, honoring not just his acting career — but the generosity and compassion that marked his final act.
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