Will Young’s twin brother Rupert has died, aged 41

4 August 2020, 10:34

The singer and his family have been left 'utterly devastated' by Rupert's passing.

Rupert Young, the twin brother of Will Young, has passed away at the age of 41.

A spokesperson confirmed the news to The Sun and requested privacy for Will and his family "during this very difficult and sad time". The cause of his death is not yet known.

Another source told the tabloid: "Will's relationship with Rupert had been tough over the years at times, and they had both spoken about the mental health problems which had made it challenging.

"But there were hopes he had turned a corner and they are a very loving family – and utterly devastated by his passing."

The 'Evergreen' singer has previously opened up about his brother's mental health issues and battle with alcoholism.

In 2008, he told the Daily Record: “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."

The Pop Idol winner added: "There was a moment I remember, 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. Otherwise I would have just stopped and it would have got on top of me much more. It was very tricky."

In an interview in 2008, Rupert opened up about his struggle with his brother's fame, The Sun reports.

"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."

Rupert set up the Mood Foundation in 2008, a charity that listed private therapists offering free therapy to people with depression and anxiety.

According to information on the Charity Commission's website, the organisation operated from 2008 to 2010.