It is with profound sorrow that the digital community mourns the untimely passing of TikTok star Joshua Blackledge, known online as MommyJoshua or F30 Joshh. A vibrant and charismatic creator, Joshua brought joy, laughter, and relatability to millions through his engaging content. His death by suicide on March 18, 2025, at the age of 16, has left fans, loved ones, and fellow creators grappling with immense grief and sparked vital conversations about mental health in the social media age.
**A Rising Star on TikTok
Joshua Blackledge, born on August 5, 2008, in Newport, North Carolina, rose to prominence on TikTok under the handle @f30joshh. With over 1.1 million followers and more than 33 million likes, his content resonated deeply with audiences. Joshua debuted on the platform in April 2023 with a dance video captioned “ts tuff,” marking the start of a meteoric rise. His lip-sync performances to hip-hop and R&B tracks, often infused with humor and impeccable timing, showcased his infectious energy. By July 2023, one of his videos had garnered over a million views, solidifying his status as a beloved influencer.
Despite facing setbacks, such as the banning of his original TikTok account, Joshua’s resilience shone through. He rebuilt his following on a new account, continuing to share content that highlighted his personality, passions, and relationships—particularly with his girlfriend, Emmie Gillikin, who frequently appeared in his videos. His posts ranged from dance routines and lip-syncs to car-related content, reflecting his love for trucks and outdoor adventures.
**A Life Beyond the Screen
Beyond his online persona, Joshua was a multifaceted individual with a zest for life. A junior at West Carteret High School in Morehead City, North Carolina, he was an active member of the wrestling and track teams. His obituary, published by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, described him as having an “energetic spirit” and an “entertaining nature,” often impressing others with backflips. Joshua’s passion for the outdoors was evident in his love for fishing, boating, and spending time by the water with friends. He also enjoyed working on cars and trucks, a hobby he showcased in videos like his final TikTok post on March 14, 2025, where he documented swapping tires on his white pickup truck.
At home, Joshua was a devoted son, often helping his mother, Jackie Blackledge, with cooking, gardening, and yard work. He is survived by his parents, Jonathan and Jackie, and his brother, Josiah. These glimpses into his life revealed a young man who balanced the demands of social media fame with a grounded, community-oriented existence.
**A Devastating Loss
Joshua’s death on March 18, 2025, was confirmed by his girlfriend, Emmie Gillikin, in an emotional TikTok video posted the same day. Documents obtained by outlets like *People* and *Us Weekly* later revealed that Joshua died by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Newport, North Carolina. His body was discovered by a family member, alongside a teddy bear, a note, and a picture. Reports noted that his family had observed behavioral changes over the past year, though no official statement has confirmed specific contributing factors.
The news sent shockwaves through the TikTok community, with fans flooding his final posts with messages of disbelief and sorrow. Comments like “Rest in peace you’re gone too soon” and “I’m in shock, this is very sad” captured the collective grief. Emmie’s heartfelt tributes, including a video highlighting their Valentine’s Day memories with the caption “100 reasons we should be together and 1 reason we can’t,” underscored the depth of their bond. She later addressed rumors, clarifying that Joshua was not bullied and was loved by those around him, urging fans to refrain from spreading misinformation.
**Allegations and Unverified Claims
Some online discussions, including a Reddit post by an individual claiming to have known Joshua, alleged that he faced mistreatment from his family, particularly his mother, which may have contributed to his struggles. These claims described harsh living conditions, such as boarded-up windows and being forced to sleep on a couch. However, these allegations remain unverified and speculative, as no official reports or family statements have corroborated them. Emmie’s dismissal of rumors about bullying suggests a need for caution in accepting unconfirmed narratives, respecting the family’s privacy during their grief.
**A Legacy of Joy and Connection
Joshua’s impact on his audience was profound. His videos weren’t just entertainment; they were a source of comfort and inspiration for fans navigating their own challenges. Tributes continue to pour in across TikTok, with stitches, remixes, and hashtags celebrating his iconic moments. Creators and fans alike have shared how his humor and authenticity brightened their days, with one follower noting, “His posts will forever be about you, Emmie. He loved you.”
A “celebration of life” ceremony held on March 23, 2025, at Camp Albemarle in Newport drew hundreds of family members, friends, and fans. The Carteret County Public School Foundation expressed gratitude for the community’s support, emphasizing the outpouring of love for Joshua’s family. His obituary beautifully encapsulated his essence: “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.”
**A Call for Mental Health Awareness
Joshua’s passing has reignited critical discussions about mental health, particularly among young influencers navigating the pressures of online visibility. The expectation to maintain a “perfect” or “happy” persona can mask private struggles, and Joshua’s story underscores the need for open conversations and accessible support. Fans and creators are using his legacy to advocate for checking in on loved ones and destigmatizing mental health challenges.
As the digital world continues to evolve, Joshua’s death serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize well-being over performance. Resources like The Samaritans (116 123 in the UK, or text 07889 036 280 for those with communication difficulties) and similar organizations worldwide offer confidential support for those in crisis. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out—help is available, and you are not alone.
**Honoring Joshua’s Memory
Joshua Blackledge, known as MommyJoshua, was more than a TikTok star. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and a creator who touched countless lives with his vibrant spirit. His legacy lives on through the laughter he sparked, the connections he fostered, and the love he shared with Emmie and his community. As fans continue to celebrate his life, they carry forward his message of joy, resilience, and authenticity.
Rest in peace, Joshua. Your light will never fade.
