For nearly two decades, Ariana Grande has seamlessly juggled her dual roles as an actress and singer, consistently remaining in the public eye.
Fans and critics alike have shown an endless curiosity about her private life, eagerly following her latest ventures, whether they involve her real estate transactions or romantic relationships.
Recently, Grande’s fame has surged once more, fueled by her involvement in the much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked.
Taking on the iconic role of Glinda, the optimistic and pink-clad Good Witch, she stars alongside Cynthia Erivo, who portrays the green-skinned Elphaba.
With Wicked garnering attention, Grande’s personal life has also become a talking point, particularly after news surfaced about her relationship with one of her co-stars.
Who is Ethan Slater?
Ethan Slater, Ariana Grande’s boyfriend, has drawn widespread attention as fans delve into his background and connection with the star. A celebrated figure in theater, Slater gained acclaim for his Tony-nominated portrayal of SpongeBob in The SpongeBob Musical.
Beyond his stage career, he has appeared on popular television series such as Law & Order: SVU, Murphy Brown, Instinct, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Slater has a personal history that resonates with many. He married his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay, in 2018, and they welcomed a son in 2022. However, their relationship ended in divorce, finalized in September 2024.
Following their split, Jay penned an essay detailing her experiences during this tumultuous period, reflecting on the challenges of transitioning from a private life to public scrutiny due to her husband’s new high-profile relationship.
Tracing Ariana Grande’s Romantic Journey
Grande’s relationships have often been high-profile and widely discussed. Beginning with Graham Phillips in 2008, she later dated figures like Jai Brooks, Nathan Sykes, and Big Sean, each connection leaving its mark on her life and music.
In 2015, she shared a brief romance with Ricky Alvarez, which became infamous due to a viral incident. Her most publicized relationships include her time with Mac Miller, marked by love and tragedy, and her whirlwind engagement to Pete Davidson, which ended just months after it began.
In 2021, she married Dalton Gomez in an intimate ceremony, though their union ended in divorce by 2023, reportedly influenced by professional and personal distance.
Grande and Slater’s Relationship Today
Following her divorce, reports surfaced that Grande had begun dating Ethan Slater. Sources revealed that their connection started after both had ended their respective marriages.
Though the relationship initially attracted controversy, the couple appears to have found happiness together. Grande has even publicly expressed admiration for Slater’s talents, referring to him as the “Buster Keaton of today.”
Addressing Speculation
While promoting Wicked, Grande shared rare insights into her personal life. She emphasized the challenges of dealing with public misperceptions about her and those she cares about.
She defended Slater, commending his dedication to the people in his life and criticizing the rumors that had painted him unfairly.
What Lies Ahead for Grande and Slater
As the couple maintains a low-profile relationship, both are pursuing exciting professional opportunities. Grande has signaled her intention to focus more on acting, and with Wicked: For Good set for a November 2025 release, she is expected to join co-star Cynthia Erivo on promotional tours.
Her performance has already earned her nominations, including a Golden Globe nod for her role as Glinda. Meanwhile, Slater is continuing his acting career with a horror film, The Designer, currently in post-production.
Their careers and personal lives remain under the spotlight, but the pair seems determined to move forward, thriving both individually and as a couple.