Yahoo News Will Young’s twin brother Rupert dies aged 41
Will Young’s twin brother Rupert has died at the age of 41.
A spokesperson for the singer confirmed Rupert’s death but did not disclose what caused it.
“I can confirm that Will’s brother has very sadly passed away,” the representative told The Sun. “We would like to request privacy for Will and his family during this very difficult and sad time.”
Young has previously spoken about his brother’s struggles with depression and alcoholism, telling The Daily Record in 2013: “There was a moment when I had to go to some awards thing. I had an album out, I was in a film and I was having a great time professionally. I had to drive past the train station, and I knew that he’d been there for a day, just drinking.
“But I knew I had to leave him alone. That was tough, of course it was, but you have to get on. And in that respect being so involved in work was a great thing.”
He added: “It’s very tough having a family member who is an addict. But when you’re dealing with that you eventually have to just stop and look after yourself. Me, my parents, my older sister, everyone. We all just had to walk away. We had to leave him."
Young rose to fame after winning Pop Idol in 2002. He has released seven albums across his career and was nominated for an Olivier for his performance in the 2013 London revival of the musical Cabaret.
Rupert set up the Mood Foundation in 2008, a charity that lists private therapists who offer free therapy to people with depression and anxiety. He also worked as an assistant floor manager on a TV production and as a dog walker.
In a 2008 interview with The Telegraph, Rupert said it was hard to cope with his brother’s success: “I woke up one morning and turned on the TV. There was William on Richard & Judy, giving the most amazing performance of one of his songs.
“I had spent the night before drinking with tramps in a car park and cutting myself. It seemed bizarre to me that two people who are genetically the same could behave in such different ways.”
f you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
