Coronation Street star Debbie Rush, known for playing Anna Windass, has launched a fundraiser in memory of her son William Rush, who died at the age of 31 in December 2025. William, an actor who appeared on Coronation Street in 2014 and had roles in Waterloo Road, Shameless, Grange Hill, Casualty, and Vera, passed away on 17th December.
Fundraiser for Andy's Man Club
Months after his death, Debbie and her family have set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for Andy's Man Club, a mental health charity. On the page, the family wrote: "William Rush was an amazing young man who sadly lost his life at the age of 31. He was always there to listen, offering kindness, understanding, and support to anyone who needed it."
They added: "William helped as many people as he possibly could, especially those struggling with their mental health. He was neurodiverse and, although only recently diagnosed, had faced challenges for much of his life with quiet strength."
William Rush Sports Day
The family announced plans to start an annual "William Rush Sports Day" to raise funds for the charity. "To honour him, we have started 'William Rush Sports Day.' Every year, since he was a little boy, William’s summer birthday was celebrated with something sports-related, surrounded by family and friends. This was something he truly loved, and it feels right to continue that tradition in his name," they wrote.
They continued: "Through this event, we hope to bring people together, raise money, and celebrate William’s wonderful life. Most importantly, we want to share a message that truly matters: it’s okay to talk. No one should ever feel like they are alone, and reaching out to someone — a friend, family member, or even a stranger — can make all the difference."
Legacy of Kindness
The family expressed hope that the fundraiser would encourage people to open up and check on others. "If this fundraiser does anything, we hope it encourages even one person to open up, to check in on someone they care about, and to remember that there is always someone willing to listen," they added.
Debbie announced her son's death in December, saying he would "always be missed and forever in our hearts." She wrote: "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."
She also noted that William was an organ donor: "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."
