Ariana Grande, the multi-talented singer and actress, has offered a rare glimpse into her burgeoning romance with Ethan Slater, describing him as “amazing” in a recent podcast interview. This public declaration of affection marks a significant departure from the couple’s previous reticence regarding their relationship, which began amidst a swirl of personal changes for both individuals. Grande’s interview on the “Smartless” podcast, hosted by Sean Hayes, provided the platform for this endearing revelation. Hayes, who shares a connection with Slater through their collaborative work on stage, praised Slater’s character, calling him one of the nicest people he’s ever encountered. This endorsement prompted Grande’s heartfelt response, expressing her gratitude and echoing the sentiment, solidifying the image of a couple deeply appreciative of each other.
The relationship between Grande and Slater, both prominent figures in the entertainment industry, blossomed in 2023 following their individual separations from previous partners. Their paths first crossed during the filming of the highly anticipated movie adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon, “Wicked,” where they portray the iconic characters of Glinda and Boq, respectively. This shared professional experience laid the groundwork for their personal connection, which has since flourished despite the public scrutiny that often accompanies high-profile relationships. Slater’s recent Instagram post celebrating Grande’s Oscar nomination for her role in “Wicked” further underscores the couple’s mutual support and admiration. His concise yet impactful message, accompanied by a photograph of Grande holding pink balloons, a symbolic nod to her character Glinda, speaks volumes about their bond.
“Wicked,” a cinematic reimagining of the beloved musical, has garnered significant attention and accolades, including a remarkable ten Academy Award nominations. This recognition encompasses a wide range of categories, from Best Picture to Best Costume Design, reflecting the film’s artistic and technical achievements. Grande’s nomination for Best Supporting Actress marks a significant milestone in her career, acknowledging her captivating portrayal of the bubbly and benevolent Glinda. The film’s exploration of the complex relationship between Glinda and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, has resonated with audiences, contributing to its critical and commercial success. This success further amplifies the spotlight on Grande and Slater’s relationship, adding another layer of intrigue to their romantic narrative.
Following her Oscar nomination, Grande expressed her overwhelming gratitude and emotion in a heartfelt social media post. She described her reaction as being “in between sobs,” highlighting the profound impact of this recognition. Her message conveyed a sense of humility and honor, recognizing the significance of being nominated alongside other esteemed artists. She also paid tribute to her younger self, who was captivated by Judy Garland’s iconic performance of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” a song deeply intertwined with the “Wizard of Oz” narrative that serves as the prequel to “Wicked.” This nostalgic reference underscores the cyclical nature of artistic inspiration and the enduring power of classic performances.
Grande’s emotional outpouring extended to her “Wicked” colleagues, particularly her co-star and friend, Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba. She praised Erivo’s brilliance and unwavering support, emphasizing the deep bond they forged during the film’s production. Grande’s message of unconditional love and admiration for Erivo showcases the strong camaraderie within the “Wicked” cast, highlighting the collaborative spirit that contributed to the film’s success. She also acknowledged director Jon M. Chu, commending his leadership and friendship, further emphasizing the importance of strong working relationships in the creative process. This public display of appreciation reinforces the sense of unity and mutual respect within the “Wicked” family.
While Erivo attended the 2025 Grammy Awards, Grande was notably absent for the fifth consecutive year. This absence sparked speculation and discussion among fans and media outlets, fueling curiosity about her reasons for skipping the prestigious music event. Given her recent Oscar nomination and ongoing involvement in “Wicked” promotional activities, it is plausible that scheduling conflicts or a desire to prioritize her film commitments contributed to her decision. Alternatively, her absence could reflect a personal choice to step back from the intense spotlight of awards ceremonies, allowing her to focus on her creative endeavors and personal life. Regardless of the specific reasons, her absence underscores the evolving priorities and choices that shape the trajectory of her career and public persona.
