Ariana Grande, the renowned pop star and two-time Grammy winner, has opened up about the emotional toll of living in the public eye and enduring relentless rumors about her personal life. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Grande shared her thoughts on the pain of dealing with gossip and criticism, particularly surrounding her rumored relationship with her Wicked costar, Ethan Slater. Despite her best efforts to shield herself from the negativity, Grande admitted that the constant stream of rumors never becomes less painful. However, she emphasized the importance of maintaining her passion for her art, stating, "It’ll never be unpainful, but also, I walk with the awareness that I’m an artist and this is a path that I’ve chosen, and so I just try to protect myself so that I never start to resent the art."
Grande’s personal life has been under intense scrutiny, especially following her divorce from real estate broker Dalton Gomez, which was finalized in March 2024. Shortly after the news of their split broke, reports began circulating that Grande was dating Ethan Slater, her costar in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked. Slater, who was previously married to therapist Lilly Jay and shares a young child with her, had also recently finalized his divorce in September 2024. The timing of these events led to widespread speculation and concern about the timeline of Grande and Slater’s relationship. A source close to the couple clarified that Grande and Slater began dating only after both had separated from their respective spouses. "Ariana and Dalton separated in January," the insider shared with People. "She and Ethan recently began dating, and he is separated from his wife." The couple made their relationship Instagram official in November 2024.
Despite their efforts to keep their relationship private, Grande and Slater have faced significant backlash on social media, with many questioning the timing of their romance and criticizing their decision to date so soon after their marriages ended. Grande addressed these criticisms directly in an interview with Vanity Fair last September, expressing her disappointment at the public’s willingness to believe negative narratives about her and Slater. "The most disappointing part was to see so many people believe the worst version of it," she said. Grande was particularly defensive of Slater, who she felt had been unfairly portrayed by the tabloids as someone who abandoned his wife and child for her. She called these depictions "bullshit," insisting that Slater is an exceptionally caring and committed person. "No one on this earth tries harder or spreads themselves thinner to be there for the people that he loves and cares about," she said. "There is no one on this earth with a better heart, and that is something that no bullshit tabloid can rewrite in real life."
Grande’s comments highlight the emotional impact of living under constant public scrutiny, where every aspect of one’s personal life is subject to interpretation and judgment. She has long been a target of tabloid fodder, from her high-profile relationships to her career choices, and yet she continues to navigate the challenges of fame with resilience. By speaking out against the false narratives surrounding her relationship with Slater, Grande not only defends her partner but also challenges the broader culture of negativity and distrust that often accompanies celebrity gossip. Her words serve as a reminder of the human cost of relentless media attention and the importance of empathy in understanding the lives of public figures.
In many ways, Grande’s experience reflects the broader societal issue of how we consume and respond to celebrity news. The tabloid industry thrives on sensationalism, often prioritizing drama and controversy over accuracy and fairness. This can have a profound impact on the individuals involved, as Grande so eloquently articulated. By calling out the "bullshit" narratives that have been constructed around Slater, she is not only standing up for her partner but also advocating for a more compassionate and truthful way of engaging with celebrity culture. Her willingness to speak her truth, even in the face of widespread criticism, is a testament to her strength and commitment to staying true to herself and her art.
Ultimately, Grande’s story is one of resilience and determination in the face of ongoing challenges. While the rumors and criticism may never fully subside, she has found a way to navigate the complexities of her public life without losing sight of her passion for music and performance. By focusing on her art and surrounding herself with loved ones who support her, Grande continues to thrive both personally and professionally. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, staying true to oneself and one’s values is the most important thing of all.
