'Parasocial' truly fan-tastic

"PARASOCIAL" has been named as the Cambridge Dictionary's word of the year, defined as a connection someone feels with a famous person they do not know.

- BY SAM RUSSELL

When pop star Taylor Swift and American footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement this year, many fans felt a strong connection to them despite most not having met them.

The parasocial relationships people form with online influencers and Al chatbots have also been highlighted as part of the growing trend.