The entertainment world is in mourning following the tragic death of actor William Rush, the son of former Coronation Street star Debbie Rush. He was 31 years old.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Announcement
Debbie Rush, 59, who played Anna Windass on the ITV soap for a decade, shared the devastating news on her Instagram on 18th December. She posted a photograph of her son wearing a Manchester City football shirt, confirming he had passed away the previous day, 17th December 2025, just days before Christmas.
"Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December," she wrote. "As a family, our hearts are completely broken, and there are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss."
In a moving tribute, she revealed her son's final act of generosity. "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 concluded her post by asking for privacy for herself, her husband Andrew, and William's siblings, Poppy and Tom, as they navigate their grief.
Support from Soap Colleagues and an Acting Legacy
Debbie's former Coronation Street co-stars were quick to offer their condolences and support online. Sally Dynevor expressed her shock, while Katie McGlynn remembered William as someone who "brought a smile to everyone's face." Paula Lane said she was "absolutely heartbroken" for the family.
William Rush had followed in his mother's footsteps into acting. After training at the Manchester School of Acting, he made a brief appearance on Coronation Street in 2014. His most notable role was as Josh Stevenson in the BBC school drama Waterloo Road, which he played between 2009 and 2012.
His other screen credits included parts in Shameless, Grange Hill, Casualty, and Vera. Beyond acting, William also pursued music, appearing on The X Factor in 2016 where he performed for judges including Simon Cowell, progressing to the Six Chair Challenge stage before being eliminated.
A Legacy of Kindness
The cause of William Rush's death has not been made public. The focus, as highlighted by his mother, remains on his legacy of kindness and his final act of donating his organs to help others.
"His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy," Debbie Rush wrote. "William will always be loved, always missed, and forever in our hearts." The family's request for privacy is respected as they come to terms with their profound loss during the festive season.
