Who was Joshua Blackledge? The 16-year-old TikTok star from North Carolina died at 16

Joshua Blackledge, a 16-year-old rising star on TikTok with over 1 million followers, passed away last week in Newport, North Carolina. His family announced his death in an online obituary, though they did not disclose the cause.

Blackledge was known for his car-related content on TikTok. He would lip-sync to songs while exploring his love for cars. His last post featured a new BMW car and a white truck. “Joshua will be remembered by those who knew him for his enthusiasm and love for life. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing,” the obituary stated.

Blackledge was in a relationship with Emmie Gillikin. The two would often collaborate on social media. Earlier, this month, they celebrated their eight-month anniversary.

Gillikin shared an emotional tribute with clips from their time together. She wrote, “Missing this sweet boy right now. Never would’ve thought I would have been here without you. Josh showed me what love really was even (though) I’m very young.”

The TikTok star loved to spend time with his family, particularly helping his mother “with cooking, gardening, and yard work.” Blackledge was also fond of water activities such as fishing or boating with friends.

A student at West Carteret High School in North Carolina’s Morehead City, Blackledge was honored with a celebration of life service on Sunday at Camp Albemarle in Newport.

Joshua is survived by his parents, Jonathan and Jackie Blackledge, and brother Josiah Blackledge.