Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande made a stunning appearance at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards, where they showcased not only their talent but also their deep affection for each other. The ceremony, held on a star-studded evening in February, brought together some of Hollywood’s brightest stars, and the Wicked co-stars were undoubtedly among the most talked-about couples in attendance. Slater, known for his protective nature, was seen holding Grande’s hand tightly as they navigated through the crowd, ensuring her safety and comfort amidst the bustling event. A video shared by the popular gossip Instagram account Deuxmoi captured an intimate moment between the two, where Slater whispered something in Grande’s ear, prompting her to nod in agreement before she gently patted his hand. The tender gesture, observed by lip reader Nicola Hickling, highlighted Slater’s concern for Grande’s well-being, as he reportedly urged her to “stay near” due to the pushing crowd around them. The moment was not only endearing but also a testament to the strong bond they share.
The pair, who have been dating since 2023, were seen throughout the night expressing their affection in subtle yet sweet ways. Grande, dressed in a breathtaking pale pink off-the-shoulder Loewe gown adorned with floral appliqués, was the picture of elegance, and Slater couldn’t help but admire her. At one point, he was seen holding her hands, his eyes filled with admiration as they chatted and smiled together. Despite their obvious chemistry, the couple chose to keep their public displays of affection relatively low-key, walking the red carpet separately but staying close throughout the event. Their decision to maintain some level of privacy only added to the mystery and charm of their relationship, leaving fans and onlookers eager to catch glimpses of their interactions.
Slater and Grande’s relationship has not been without its challenges. When rumors of their romance first emerged in late 2022, both actors were still married to their respective spouses. Grande was married to real estate agent Dalton Gomez, whom she wed in 2021, while Slater was married to playwright Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a young son. However, both parties have consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting that they were separated from their spouses before pursuing a relationship with each other. Page Six confirmed in July 2023 that Grande had officially separated from Gomez, while Slater filed for divorce from Jay the same month. Despite their efforts to clarify the timeline of their relationship, the couple has faced ongoing scrutiny and speculation, with many questioning the circumstances of their romantic involvement.
The media frenzy surrounding their relationship reached a peak in late 2023, with tabloids and fans alike dissecting every detail of their personal lives. Grande addressed the situation in a November 2024 interview with Vanity Fair, expressing her disappointment over the public’s willingness to believe the worst about their relationship. “The most disappointing part was to see so many people believe the worst version of it,” she said, her words reflecting the emotional toll the constant scrutiny had taken on her. Slater, too, has faced his share of criticism, particularly given his role as a father and the impact the situation may have had on his young son. Yet, despite the chaos, the couple has remained resilient, focusing on their work and their growing bond.
In recent months, Grande and Slater have been on an extensive press tour for Wicked, which premiered in November 2023 and has since become a cultural phenomenon. The film, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, stars Grande as Glinda and Slater as Boq, and the two have been praised for their performances. Their promotional efforts have taken them around the world, from talk shows and interviews to red-carpet events and fan meet-and-greets. Along the way, they have occasionally shared rare glimpses into their relationship, offering fans a peek into their personal lives. One particularly heartwarming moment came when Slater celebrated Grande’s first Oscar nomination with an intimate photo of the two in their London hotel room. In the image, Grande is seen gazing out the window, clutching pink balloons as Slater looks on lovingly. The quiet, personal moment was a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of their public appearances and served as a reminder of the genuine affection they share.
Despite their personal and professional successes, the couple faced a setback at the SAG Awards, where they left empty-handed despite Wicked being nominated for five awards, including Grande’s nod for Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role. However, the night was far from disappointing for the pair. They were seen laughing and enjoying themselves alongside their Wicked co-stars, and their chemistry and camaraderie were undeniable. As they continue to navigate the highs and lows of their careers and personal lives, Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande remain one of Hollywood’s most intriguing and beloved couples, proving that their relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and unwavering support.
