US country pop sensation Taylor Swift paid a poignant tribute last night to a young Kiwi who died on her big OE last year.
Jess Hosking, 19, was only weeks into her dream OE, working as a nanny, when she was found dead in her bed in Paris. She died of a previously unknown heart condition.
Jess had idolised Swift, the most financially successful artist of 2011 according to Billboard, and that connection has become a touchstone for her parents as they slowly come to terms with their loss.
The singer’s hit Long Live was played at a celebration of Jess’ life last year by friends and family at Piha beach, where the popular teen had been a surf lifesaver.
Last night Swift repaid her fan’s adoration. She took parents Sandra and Mark Hosking backstage before her show, a heart-warming but emotional moment for the couple.
''It is fantastic, but it is bittersweet because I would give anything to have Jess back,'' said Sandra.
''We did it to honour Jess. Prior to Jess’s passing, I knew of Taylor Swift but I know a heap more about her now. Now I know most of her songs and I know how important she was to Jess.''
Sandra gave Swift a book she had made using photos of her daughter.
Last night’s meeting was arranged by Amy Rider, the partner of Piha’s lifeguard captain. She was determined Jess’ parents should meet Swift when she toured here. She set about contacting the promoters and anyone else who could help.
When the news was delivered that Swift wanted to meet them, Sandra was listening to music by the singer.
''They rang us and I just happened to be listening to Taylor Swift and crying my eyes out as I do when I hear her. Jess would be blown away and think it was just crazy, nutty karma.''
Swift is here for a three-concert, sell-out tour which ends tonight.
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