Jessie J reveals the poignant reason behind her Royal Variety tracksuit after sharing an emotional embrace with the Princess of Wales

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Jessie J shared the story behind her outfit at Wednesday night’s Royal Variety Performance, explaining that it was a very deliberate choice.

The 37-year-old singer gave a moving performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Afterwards, she shared a heartfelt hug and conversation with Princess of Wales, 43, with both women connecting over their experiences fighting cancer.

Jessie used Instagram on Thursday to discuss the previous night and explained her choice of a loose-fitting black hoodie for the red carpet.

The singer shared with her audience that her emotional performance of ‘I’ll Never Know Why’ was dedicated to her friend and security guard, Dave Last, who tragically died by suicide seven years prior.

She shared on Instagram that a man named Dave, whom everyone called Lasty, had been her security and a brotherly figure for years. She fondly remembered that after every performance, he’d always ask, ‘Do you have a hoodie?’

We used to go for walks, which really helped both our mental well-being. It was a chance to get outside, breathe fresh air, and just talk about how our day was going. I really miss those simple moments.

I skipped a formal gown or dress and instead wore a large tracksuit to remember him. It had ‘you got a hoodie’ embroidered on the back and ‘I love you’ on the hood.

Jessie explained she wanted her outfit to reflect viewers watching from home – those who might be feeling down or disconnected while enjoying the show, comfortably dressed and relaxing on their couches.

‘I know that’s what I throw on when I feel low. I feel you I see you I love you we want you here.’ 

I created this song to offer comfort to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one. Losing someone is incredibly painful, and I believe music can be a source of support during difficult times. I also hope it reminds those who feel alone or unloved that they are cared for.

It’s impossible to fully understand how painful it must be to feel like you don’t want to live. I’m sending you all my love and support, hoping you feel it and can hold onto that feeling.

Jessie had a very moving evening, capped off by a conversation with the Princess of Wales after her performance.

Earlier this year, Princess Catherine announced she is in remission from cancer, though the specific type hasn’t been shared. Singer Jessie J had a mastectomy in June as part of her breast cancer treatment.

The two women embraced and spoke about the shock of receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Jessie shared with her that she had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. She added that she just wanted to offer a hug, explaining that facing cancer really makes you appreciate life.

This performance was the sixth time Prince William and Princess Kate have attended the show as a couple, and it was Kate’s first public appearance at the show since she finished treatment for cancer.

Honestly, hearing Kate talk about her cancer journey just broke my heart, but it also felt so real. She said it’s like you pretend to be strong and just get through the treatments, thinking you can just jump back into life afterward. But she explained that the time after treatment is actually the hardest part. It’s not about being brave during, it’s dealing with everything afterwards that’s truly tough. I just feel for her so much, being so honest about that hidden struggle. It’s incredibly brave.

The Princess described her cancer diagnosis as a major life event, and her treatment and recovery as an emotional ups and downs. She emphasized the need to care for her overall well-being – her mind, body, and spirit – throughout the process.

The Royal Variety Performance also marked a pivotal moment for Jessie.

The singer shared last month that her second cancer surgery had been delayed, even though she’d cancelled her tour to have it done.

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2025-11-20 14:35