Coronation Street actress Debbie Rush has shared the heartbreaking news of her son's death. William Rush, an actor known for roles in Waterloo Road and Grange Hill, has died at the age of 31.
A Family's 'Unimaginable Grief'
Rush, famed for playing Anna Windass on the ITV soap, announced on Instagram that William died on 17 December 2025. She described her family as going through "unimaginable grief" and said their hearts were "completely broken".
"There are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss," she wrote, paying tribute to her "beautiful baby boy." The cause of death has not been made public, and the family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
In her emotional post, Rush revealed a final act of kindness from her son. William was an organ donor, and his decision has "given hope and life to other families." She added, "His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy."
William Rush's Acting Career and Legacy
William Rush built a respected career in British television from a young age. He first found fame playing Ali Duncan in the BBC school drama Grange Hill from 2005 to 2007.
He is perhaps best known for his role as Josh Stevenson in the BBC series Waterloo Road, which he played between 2009 and 2013. His other TV credits included appearances in Shameless, Vera, and Casualty.
In a unique family moment, William even appeared on Coronation Street in 2014, while his mother was a series regular. Debbie Rush portrayed Anna Windass from 2008 until 2018.
Beyond acting, William also auditioned for The X Factor in 2016, making it through to the competition's third round before the judges sent him home.
Tributes from Co-Stars and the Acting Community
News of William's passing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from across the entertainment industry, particularly from his mother's Coronation Street colleagues.
Corrie star Sally Dynevor, who plays Sally Metcalfe, wrote: "Oh Debbie I'm so shocked to hear this news. Sending you so much love. What a beautiful boy he was."
Jack P Shepherd (David Platt) commented: "Terrible to read that Debbie. Devastating news. thinking of you all." Former co-star Brooke Vincent (Sophie Webster) added: "Oh Debbie. I am so sorry for your loss!! I’m sending you all so much love."
Tributes also came from William's own professional network. Katie McGlynn, his former Waterloo Road co-star, said: "Will brought a smile to everyone's face and was a very kind soul."
William was one of three children Debbie Rush shares with her husband Andrew, whom she married in 1989. His acting journey began at school in Rochdale, inspired by his headteacher, before he trained at the Manchester School of Acting.
