Joe Irvine has had a rough week - but The X Factor NZ star has had a boost after getting cupcakes and a personalised message from Lorde.
The Devonport pop star sent Irvine a box with a note and a dozen cupcakes after the Christchurch competitor was harrassed by judges Natalia Kills and Willy Moon after performing in Sunday night's TV3 show.
Lorde's note read: "Hi Joe, Just wanted to say: Your individuality, positive energy and spirit are infectious! I think you're doing an awesome job on the show so far.
"I'm a performer too and I wanted to say that no matter how many people make fun of me for how I dress, move and act, I'm being me - and that's what's important. Good luck and lots of love, Lorde.
Irvine thanked Lorde on Twitter, saying he hoped to one day meet her.
"Hey you are awsome I love ur music and wanna meet you thank u so much for the cupcakes xo," he wrote.
Wills and Moon were removed as X Factor judges after a tirade of insults towards Irvine following his performance.
Kills had accused Irvine of copying her husband, fellow judge Willy Moon, "from the hair to the suit", and said he was a "laughing stock" and made her "sick".
Moon added that Irvine reminded him of a creepy killer and found his performance "cheap and absurd".
Irvine thanked fans for their support in a video message after making it through last night's elimination episode.
- nzherald.co.nz