Waterloo Road actor and son of Coronation Street’s Debbie Rush dies aged 31

Waterloo Road actor William Rush has died at the age of 31, his family announced.

Rush played schoolboy Josh Stevenson in the BBC One soap, appearing in 168 episodes between 2009 and 2013.

As a child actor, he also appeared in Grange Hill and Shameless, and later appeared in Casualty and Vera.

Her mother, former Coronation Street actress Debbie Rush, Announced on Instagram He said William died on Wednesday, adding: “As a family, our hearts are completely broken.” The cause of death was not disclosed.

Rush also auditioned for ITV talent show The X Factor in 2016, making it through to the “six chair challenge”, the stage between boot camp and the judges.

Actress Debbie Rush, who played Anna Windass in Coronation Street for a decade, described William as “our beautiful boy” and said: “There are no words that can truly convey the depth of our loss.”

He also paid tribute to his son’s decision to become an organ donor before his death.

“Even in our darkest hour, William gave the most precious gift,” he said.

“As an organ donor, he gave hope and life to other families, caring for others until the end. His kindness and love will forever be a part of his legacy.

“We ask that our privacy be respected as we recover from this unimaginable pain. William will always be loved, always missed, and forever in our hearts.”

Other Coronation Street stars left supportive messages on her post; Sally Dynevor said she was “devastated to hear this news” and described William as a “beautiful boy”.

Actor Jack P Shepherd said: “So awful to read this Debbie. Thinking of you all, devastating news.” Shobna Gulati wrote: “I send you all my love, I am so sorry and my deepest condolences.”

Chelsee Healey, who also appears in Waterloo Road, shared: “My heart breaks for you all, I’m so sorry.”