Quick Read
- William Rush, best known for Waterloo Road’s Josh Stevenson, died on December 17, 2025, aged 31.
- His portrayal helped advance LGBTQ+ representation on British TV, resonating deeply with queer youth.
- Rush was an organ donor; his family has requested privacy and the cause of death has not been disclosed.
William Rush, whose performance as Josh Stevenson in BBC’s Waterloo Road changed the landscape of young LGBTQ+ representation on British television, has died at the age of 31. His mother, actress Debbie Rush, announced his passing on December 17, 2025, in a heartfelt Instagram post, describing her family’s profound grief: “Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December. As a family, our hearts are completely broken, and there are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss.”
Breaking New Ground: The Impact of Josh Stevenson
For many viewers, William Rush will be eternally linked to his role as Josh Stevenson, a character who grappled with identity, addiction, and mental health in Waterloo Road from 2009 to 2013. Appearing in 69 episodes, Rush’s portrayal of a teenager coming to terms with his sexuality was more than just a storyline—it was a lifeline for countless young viewers. The series depicted Josh’s journey as he entered a same-sex relationship with Nate Gurney (played by Scott Haining), tackled cannabis addiction, and faced a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The complexity and authenticity Rush brought to the role resonated deeply, particularly at a time when genuine LGBTQ+ stories were rare on mainstream TV.
Journalist George Griffiths reflected the feelings of many: “Can still remember how seen Josh’s coming out story made me feel when I was like 14 and quite scared.” Social media tributes have poured in, with fans crediting Rush for making them feel understood and less alone. His performance wasn’t just entertainment—it was representation, compassion, and hope.
A Career Across British Television
Rush’s roots in acting ran deep. Born in Manchester on July 6, 603, and trained at the Manchester School of Acting, he began his career with a cameo on Shameless in 2007. He went on to appear in iconic British series such as Grange Hill, Casualty, Vera, and Coronation Street, where he sometimes shared the screen with his mother. His final credited role was in the 2017 ABC drama Friday On My Mind. In 2016, Rush auditioned for The X Factor, making it to the competitive six-chair challenge, revealing a desire to branch out creatively beyond acting.
A Legacy of Kindness and Generosity
Debbie Rush’s tribute illuminated not only her son’s artistry but also his personal generosity. She revealed that William was an organ donor, saying, “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. His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy.” Her request for privacy and the hashtag #BeKind underscored the family’s desire to honor William’s memory away from public scrutiny.
Tributes from Colleagues and Friends
The announcement of Rush’s death prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from across the entertainment industry. Coronation Street stars Shobna Gulati, Tina O’Brien, Jack P Shepherd, and Sally Dynevor all expressed their sorrow, describing William as “a beautiful boy” and extending love to his family. Denise Welch, who starred alongside Rush on Waterloo Road, wrote, “He was a joy. I’m so sorry Debbie. He will be deeply missed.” Aimee Lou Wood, Debbie’s co-star in Daddy Issues, added, “I am so so sorry. Sending you all my love.”
These tributes spoke not only to Rush’s talent but to his warmth and the genuine connections he built with colleagues and fans alike.
What We Know—and What Remains Private
As of December 2025, the cause of William Rush’s death has not been publicly disclosed. The Rush family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, and the public has largely respected their wishes. There has been no indication of circumstances beyond the family’s statements, and speculation has been notably absent from mainstream coverage.
Rush’s passing comes as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, and the importance of honoring those who make a difference—on screen and off. His legacy, especially for young LGBTQ+ people, remains a testament to the power of authentic storytelling.
- Sources: gayexpress.co.nz, E! Online, Yahoo Entertainment
In reflecting on William Rush’s career, one cannot ignore the ripple effect of his work. His portrayal of Josh Stevenson helped shift perceptions and provided comfort to those who saw themselves in his struggles and triumphs. In an industry where representation is often slow to change, Rush’s contribution stands as a beacon, reminding us that visibility matters, and that the stories we tell can truly change lives.