Will Rush, 31, the former The X Factor UK contestant and actor best known for his role on Waterloo Road, has died. His mother, Coronation Street actress Debbie Rush, announced on Instagram that he passed away on December 17; his cause of death has not been disclosed.
- Age: 31
- Claim to fame: The X Factor UK contestant (Series 13)
- Acting credits: Josh Stevenson on Waterloo Road (2009–2012); Friday on My Mind (2017)
- Music: Released singles including “Son,” “By My Side,” and “Tired”
- Organ donation: Family confirmed he was an organ donor, giving hope to other families
The Details
Debbie Rush shared the news on Instagram, writing: “Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December.” She added the family’s “hearts are completely broken,” and asked for privacy as they navigate their grief.
Will first rose to wider attention when he auditioned for The X Factor UK in 2016, performing Zara Larsson’s “Lush Life” while playing guitar and advancing to the six-chair challenge. During boot camp he performed an original song he wrote; judge Simon Cowell called the performance “not fun,” a remark that drew boos from the audience.
Alongside his music career, Rush appeared on television as Josh Stevenson in Waterloo Road from 2009 to 2012. His most recent acting credit listed was the 2017 miniseries Friday on My Mind, where he portrayed musician George Young. In recent years he also released several singles on streaming platforms.
The Legacy
Will Rush leaves behind a multifaceted legacy as a young performer who crossed television and music. Key highlights of his career include:
- Playing Josh Stevenson on Waterloo Road (2009–2012), a role that introduced him to TV audiences.
- Advancing to the six-chair challenge on The X Factor UK (Series 13) in 2016, showcasing his songwriting and live performance.
- Releasing original music in recent years, including the singles “Son,” “By My Side,” and “Tired.”
Social Proof: Reactions and Tributes
Fans and colleagues took to social media to express shock and condolences after Debbie Rush’s post. In her message the actress noted that even in the family’s darkest moment Will “gave the most precious gift of all” by being an organ donor, a decision she said brought hope and life to other families.
As the family grieves, they have asked for privacy. No further details about the circumstances of his death have been released at this time.
Death Notice sourced from the family’s public statement on Instagram.
Image Referance: https://talentrecap.com/former-x-factor-contestant-will-rush-dies-age-31/