Introduction
In the dazzling world of Hollywood, few stories capture attention like the romance between Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater. Their relationship, sparked on the set of Wicked, has fueled headlines, fan debates, and tabloid frenzy. From their first meeting as co-stars to their public appearances, this couple’s journey blends love, drama, and professional triumphs. Consequently, fans eagerly follow every twist, wondering how their bond evolved amidst personal challenges and public scrutiny. This article dives deep into their relationship timeline, offering an SEO-optimized, engaging look at their story while adhering to Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) guidelines. Let’s explore the captivating saga of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater.
How Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater Met: The Wicked Connection
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater first crossed paths in December 2022 on the set of Wicked, the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical. Grande, cast as Glinda the Good Witch, and Slater, playing the Munchkin Boq, bonded over their shared love for theater. Their chemistry reportedly blossomed during rehearsals, where long hours and creative collaboration laid the foundation for friendship. By early 2023, sources noted their connection deepened, sparking rumors of a romance. Despite both being married at the time, their professional synergy was undeniable. This Wicked connection set the stage for a relationship that would soon captivate the public’s imagination.
The Timeline Begins: Early 2023 Separations
In January 2023, Ariana Grande and her then-husband, Dalton Gomez, quietly separated after two years of marriage. Sources reported that distance and unresolved issues strained their relationship, especially as Grande filmed Wicked in London. Meanwhile, Ethan Slater, married to Lilly Jay since 2018, also faced marital challenges. By July 2023, reports confirmed Slater’s separation from Jay, with whom he shares a son born in August 2022. These personal shifts coincided with rumors of Grande and Slater’s growing closeness. Although the timeline raised eyebrows, insiders emphasized that both were separated before their romance began, setting the stage for their next chapter.
July 2023: Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s Romance Goes Public
On July 20, 2023, TMZ and People broke the news that Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater were dating, shocking fans worldwide. The announcement came shortly after Grande’s split from Gomez and Slater’s separation from Jay. Sources clarified that the Wicked co-stars began seeing each other only after their respective marriages ended. However, Lilly Jay’s statement to Page Six, calling Grande “not a girl’s girl” and her family “collateral damage,” fueled controversy. Despite the backlash, Grande and Slater remained focused on their budding relationship. Their romance, born amidst Wicked’s magical set, quickly became a focal point of celebrity gossip.
Public Appearances: From Disney World to Broadway
By September 2023, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater began stepping out together, signaling their commitment. On September 22, they were spotted arm-in-arm at Disney World in Orlando, joined by Grande’s family, including her mother, Joan, and brother, Frankie. This outing marked their first public appearance as a couple. Later, in October, Grande supported Slater at the first preview of his Broadway show Spamalot, showcasing her theater-kid roots. Their shared passion for musical theater strengthened their bond, and fans noted their chemistry during these outings. Despite tabloid scrutiny, these moments highlighted a couple navigating love in the public eye.
Addressing the Controversy: Ariana Grande Defends Ethan Slater
In September 2024, Ariana Grande addressed the public’s perception of her relationship with Ethan Slater in a Vanity Fair interview. She expressed frustration over tabloid narratives, stating, “There couldn’t be a less accurate depiction of a human being than the one that the tabloids spread about him.” Grande praised Slater’s kindness and dedication, emphasizing his good heart. Similarly, Slater spoke out in an October 2024 GQ interview, acknowledging the difficulty of public criticism but focusing on his happiness. Their candid responses aimed to counter rumors of infidelity and homewrecking, reinforcing their commitment to each other despite the noise.
The Role of Wicked in Their Love Story
The Wicked set was more than a backdrop; it was a catalyst for Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s romance. Filming in London from December 2022 to July 2023, the duo spent countless hours perfecting their roles as Glinda and Boq. Their shared passion for musical theater fostered a deep connection, with insiders noting their playful chemistry during breaks. The SAG strike in July 2023 briefly halted production, but their bond grew stronger off-set. By the time Wicked (Part One) premiered in November 2024, their relationship had become a central narrative, blending professional success with personal milestones.
Eternal Sunshine: Ariana Grande’s Musical Reflections
Ariana Grande’s seventh album, Eternal Sunshine, released on March 8, 2024, offered fans a glimpse into her emotional journey. Tracks like “Yes, And?” and “Supernatural” hinted at her romance with Ethan Slater. Lyrics such as “Why do you care so much whose dick I ride?” in “Yes, And?” addressed public scrutiny head-on. Fans speculated that the album’s title, with initials E.S., nodded to Slater. Grande later clarified on Instagram that the album wasn’t solely about their relationship but reflected her growth. Nevertheless, the music fueled discussions, with some praising her boldness and others criticizing perceived references to the affair.
Ethan Slater’s Ex-Wife Speaks Out
In December 2024, Lilly Jay, Ethan Slater’s ex-wife, published an essay in The Cut titled “How Does My Divorce Make You Feel?” She reflected on the pain of her divorce, particularly as it coincided with Slater’s high-profile romance with Grande. Jay wrote, “I really never thought I would get divorced, especially not just after giving birth to my first child.” While she didn’t directly accuse Grande or Slater of cheating, her words reignited speculation. Sources told the Daily Mail that Grande and Slater felt “relieved” Jay didn’t escalate the narrative, citing restrictions in her divorce agreement.
Public Support and Family Approval
Despite early controversy, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater received support from close circles. In June 2024, Frankie Grande, Ariana’s brother, praised Slater in a TooFab interview, calling him “very sweet” and a perfect match for his sister. An insider told Us Weekly in October 2023 that Grande’s family, including her father, Ed Butera, approved of Slater’s professionalism and respect for her boundaries. Their shared theatrical background and mutual respect strengthened their bond. By December 2024, sources confirmed the couple was “inseparable,” living together in New York and thriving in their “honeymoon phase.”
Awards Season and Public Appearances in 2025
As Wicked garnered critical acclaim, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s relationship took center stage during awards season. On January 3, 2025, they attended the Palm Springs International Film Awards, where Grande won the Rising Star Award. Slater celebrated her first Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress on January 23, sharing a heartfelt Instagram Stories post. Their appearance at the National Board of Review gala on January 7 showcased subtle PDA, with Slater wrapping his arm around Grande. These moments, coupled with their Critics Choice Awards outing on February 7, highlighted their growing comfort in the spotlight.
Navigating Public Scrutiny and Social Media
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater faced intense online scrutiny, particularly on platforms like X. Posts speculated about the timeline of their romance, with some accusing Grande of homewrecking. In response, Grande used Instagram to urge fans to stop sending hateful messages based on Eternal Sunshine’s lyrics. Slater, in his GQ interview, emphasized ignoring “Twitter people” and focusing on his life. Despite losing over 350,000 Instagram followers in January 2024 due to controversy, Grande remained steadfast. Their ability to address criticism while maintaining privacy showcased resilience, proving their bond could withstand public pressure.
The Future of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s Relationship
As of July 2025, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater continue to thrive, both personally and professionally. Sources report they’re content living together in New York, with no rush to marry after their respective divorces. Grande’s focus on her career, including Wicked (Part Two) and new music, aligns with Slater’s return to Broadway. Their shared values and mutual support suggest a lasting partnership. While public perception remains mixed, their commitment to each other is clear. Fans eagerly await their next steps, whether on the red carpet or in future collaborations, as their love story continues to unfold.
FAQs
When did Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater start dating?
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater began dating in July 2023, after their respective separations from Dalton Gomez and Lilly Jay. Sources confirm their romance started post-separation, despite public speculation.
Did Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater cheat on their exes?
Insiders and the couple maintain that their relationship began after both were separated. However, Lilly Jay’s essay and some reports suggest overlap, fueling debate. No definitive evidence confirms cheating.
Are Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater still together in 2025?
Yes, as of July 2025, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater are still together, reportedly living in New York and described as “inseparable” by sources.
How did Wicked influence their relationship?
Wicked was pivotal, as Grande and Slater met on set in December 2022. Their shared passion for theater and long hours filming fostered their bond.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s relationship, born on the Wicked set, has weathered controversy, tabloid scrutiny, and public debate. From their first sparks in 2022 to their inseparable bond in 2025, they’ve proven their love is resilient. Their story blends professional triumphs with personal growth, captivating fans worldwide. As they continue their journey, their shared passion for theater and mutual support shine through. Stay updated on their romance by following credible entertainment news sources or checking their social media for subtle hints. What’s your take on their love story? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.