Christmas has arrived with heartbreaking news for Coronation Street fans. Debbie Rush, who played Anna Windass for a decade, has shared that her son has died just a week before the festive season. The loss has shaken the soap community, and now, viewers rallying around the actress as she opens up about an unimaginable family tragedy.
The Heart-Breaking Update
Debbie Rush confirmed on Instagram that her son William died on Wednesday, December 17. He was just 31 years old, and his death came only days before Christmas, making the timing especially painful for the family.
In her message, Debbie said that their beautiful baby boy had passed away and shared that the family’s hearts were completely broken. She explained that there were no words that could truly describe the depth of their loss.
She also revealed that even in their darkest moment, William gave something incredibly meaningful. Debbie shared that through being an organ donor, her son gave hope and life to other families, thinking of others right until the very end. She added that his kindness and love would forever remain part of his legacy. Many viewers will remember William Rush from his role as Josh Stevenson in Waterloo Road, which he played from 2009 to 2013.
Debbie Rush’s Coronation Street Legacy And A Family’s Request
Debbie Rush, now 59, played Anna Windass on Coronation Street from 2008 to 2018. Anna was the devoted mum of Gary Windass and was involved in many major storylines during her time. In 2016, Anna survived a car explosion that left her legs badly burned. That same year, Pat Phelan returned to Weatherfield and later married Eileen Grimshaw. Anna suspected him of several crimes but could never prove it.
In 2017, Phelan framed her for pushing Seb Franklin off a ladder, leading to her conviction for attempted murder. She spent four months in prison before police discovered that Phelan had murdered four people.
After her release, Anna confronted Phelan while he was on the run, stabbed him, and then left Weatherfield. In her message, Debbie also asked that her family’s privacy be respected as they cope. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest Coronation Street news.