Joshua Blackledge: Young TikTokker dies suddenly aged just 16

Taylor Renouf
PerthNow
Josh Blackledge.
Josh Blackledge. Credit: TikTok

A young American TikTokker with more than one million followers has died suddenly aged just 16 years old.

Joshua Blackledge passed away at his home in Newport on March 18, with his family announcing the news in an obituary.

His devastated family said he will be remembered for his “enthusiasm and love for life”.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

“He had a passion for the outdoors and loved being around water, whether fishing or boating with friends. He also had a love for cars and trucks,” his mother Jackie, dad Jonathan and brother Josian wrote in the obituary.

“At home, Joshua liked helping his mom with cooking, gardening and yard work.

“He had an energetic spirit and was known for his entertaining nature, often impressing others with backflips.

“May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.”

The 16-year-old gained a huge following by posting content about his cars and girlfriend, Emmie Gillikin.

Just weeks before his death, Blackledge and Gillikin celebrated their eight-month anniversary.

In a heartbreaking tribute to her boyfriend, Gillikin said: “You gave me the world before you left it and taught me true love before teaching me true loss.”

The cause of Blackledge’s death has not been confirmed.

Originally published on PerthNow

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 28-03-2025

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 28 March 202528 March 2025

Election day 1: The scare.