Ethan Slater has addressed his relationship with Hollywood star Ariana Grande publicly for the first time, revealing details about how they met on the set of the upcoming adaptation of Wicked, where they play characters who fall in love. The timing of their relationship coincided with the end of their respective marriages, leading to speculation and criticism among fans. Slater’s ex-wife, Lilly Jay, spoke out against the relationship, describing her family as “collateral damage.” The former couple, who had been together since 2012 and married in 2018, share one child born in 2022.
Rumors about Grande and her ex-husband, Dalton Gomez, surfaced as early as January 2023, but their separation was not officially announced until July of that year. Slater and Grande were seen together at Michelle Yeoh’s Oscars party in March 2023, and Slater posted a Mother’s Day tribute to his wife in May, with Grande liking the post. By July, Grande was spotted without her wedding ring, signaling her separation, and news of her and Slater’s relationship emerged shortly after that. The couple endured intense media scrutiny and public curiosity but remained together, giving each other “space” to navigate their personal transitions.
Grande and Gomez finalized their divorce in October 2023, settling the terms amicably. Grande reflected on a tumultuous year in December, expressing pride and joy despite feeling misunderstood by the public. She released her album “Eternal Sunshine” in March 2024, which hinted at her relationship with Slater and the emotional rollercoaster of divorce and new love. The couple made a rare public appearance together at a Stanley Cup playoff game in June, maintaining a united front amidst criticism and backlash from fans.
Grande addressed the controversy surrounding their relationship in an interview with Vanity Fair in September, expressing disappointment about the negativity fueled by tabloids. She defended Slater, emphasizing that he is inaccurately portrayed in the media and highlighting his caring nature. Slater finally spoke out in an interview with GQ in October, acknowledging the challenges of public scrutiny and speculation about their private lives. He praised Grande’s dedication to her work on Wicked and expressed pride in her accomplishments.
The couple’s relationship timeline reflects a journey of personal growth and resilience amidst public judgment and criticism. They have weathered the challenges of moving on from previous marriages, dealing with tabloid speculation, and maintaining a strong, supportive bond. Their public appearances and shared experiences demonstrate a united front against backlash, showcasing their commitment to each other and their individual paths. Despite facing obstacles and scrutiny, Slater and Grande have navigated their relationship with grace and resilience, focusing on their work, personal growth, and mutual respect.
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