Ariana Grande’s Love Life: A Journey Through the Chaos of "Wicked"
Ariana Grande’s romantic escapades have long captivated the public’s attention, but nothing could have prepared fans for the whirlwind that followed her casting in the much-anticipated film adaptation of Wicked. From a seemingly stable marriage to a new romance that ignited controversy, Grande’s love life has become a focal point of media scrutiny.
The Calm Before the Storm
In December 2022, filming for Wicked commenced in the UK. At that time, Ariana was married to Dalton Gomez, a real estate developer. She was cast as Glinda, while Ethan Slater, who was also married, took on the role of Boq, the Munchkin. Slater was married to his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay, and the couple had welcomed their first child earlier that year. Little did anyone know that this project would set the stage for a dramatic shift in both their lives.
The First Signs of Change
Fast forward to July 16, 2023, when eagle-eyed fans spotted Grande at Wimbledon without her wedding ring. Just a day later, TMZ reported that she and Gomez had separated, confirming what many had speculated. Sources indicated that the couple had been experiencing issues for some time, but they aimed to handle the breakup with respect and privacy.
By July 20, the plot thickened as reports emerged that Grande and Slater were dating. An insider revealed that their chemistry was evident on set, with the two often seen laughing and enjoying each other’s company. This revelation sent shockwaves through social media, especially given that both were still in marriages at the time.
The Fallout
On July 26, Slater filed for divorce from Lilly Jay, marking a significant turning point in both his and Grande’s lives. As the summer unfolded, the couple was spotted together more frequently, including a hand-holding stroll at Disney World in September. Reports confirmed that they were living together in New York as Slater prepared for his Broadway role in Spamalot.
As the months progressed, Grande and Slater’s relationship blossomed publicly. By October 7, news broke that Grande and Gomez had settled their divorce amicably, allowing her to fully embrace her new romance.
Public Appearances and Growing Affection
Throughout late 2023 and into 2024, Grande and Slater made several public appearances together, showcasing their affection. Grande supported Slater at the premiere of Spamalot, and they were often seen attending events hand-in-hand. Their relationship seemed to flourish, with Grande even sharing a playful tribute to Slater during the holiday season.
However, the couple faced backlash from critics, prompting Grande to address the situation directly in an open letter on Instagram. She expressed her feelings of being misunderstood and emphasized the joy and love she felt in her new relationship.
Navigating the Spotlight
As 2024 progressed, Grande released a single titled "Yes, And?" that appeared to reflect her experiences and the scrutiny surrounding her relationship. Slater also spoke out about the challenges of having their private lives dissected by the media, emphasizing the difficulty of navigating public perception while dealing with personal changes.
Despite the challenges, the couple continued to support each other professionally and personally. Grande’s brother Frankie publicly endorsed Slater, expressing his happiness for his sister and her new partner.
The Evolution of Their Relationship
By early 2025, Grande and Slater were inseparable, attending various award shows and events together. Grande received her first Oscar nomination, and Slater celebrated her achievements on social media. Their bond appeared to deepen, with both expressing admiration for each other’s talents and character.
However, as the Wicked: For Good press tour began in late 2025, rumors of an on-and-off relationship surfaced. Despite the speculation, sources close to the couple insisted that their relationship was genuine and supportive.
Facing Challenges Together
As they navigated the complexities of fame and personal life, Grande and Slater remained committed to one another. They continued to make public appearances, showcasing their affection and support for each other’s careers. Grande even defended Slater against negative portrayals in the media, highlighting his kind heart and dedication to those he loves.
Their journey has been anything but conventional, marked by rapid changes and public scrutiny. Yet, through it all, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater have managed to find joy and companionship in each other, proving that love can flourish even in the most chaotic of circumstances.
