The romantic relationship between Ariana Grande and her co-star Ethan Slater from the movie ‘Wicked’ became public in July last year, attracting widespread attention. At the time, both were still in separate marriages, which led to much discussion among fans and media alike.
The singer Ariana Grande (31) had separated from her husband, Los Angeles real estate developer Dalton Gomez (29), in July 2023 after two years of marriage. Meanwhile, Ethan Slater (32) initiated divorce proceedings with Lilly Jay in the same month. Slater and Jay share a two-year-old son.
Grande finalized her divorce in March 2024, while Slater’s was completed in September 2024.
A source close to Slater shared with The Post, “I thought Slater was very happy with Lilly. It was completely unexpected for me.”
Lilly Jay commented on the situation in July last year, telling Page Six that her family was deeply affected by the developments. Another source mentioned that Jay was “completely caught off guard” by her husband’s relationship with Grande.
As both actors prepare for their biggest roles in the musical film ‘Wicked,’ their relationship has once again become a focal point. The highly anticipated film is set to release worldwide, including in Vietnam, on November 22. Ariana Grande plays Glinda, starring alongside Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba.
On social media, some fans have expressed their disapproval of the relationship, while others continue to support the couple.
Director Jon M. Chu cast Grande in her “dream role” as Glinda in 2021. A year later, Slater was selected to play Boq, the love interest of Nessarose (Marissa Bode), Elphaba’s sister. At that time, Slater was still married to Lilly Jay, and the couple had recently welcomed their child. Grande and Slater met on the set of ‘Wicked’ in December 2022.
A source close to Slater suggested that his busy schedule and the long-distance separation from his wife while filming in Buckinghamshire, England, may have contributed to the situation.
In June 2023, Ariana Grande was seen linking arms with Slater in London at the private members’ club Soho Farmhouse while celebrating her 30th birthday, as captured by the Daily Mail. By July 2023, their relationship became public, just days after Grande’s separation from Gomez.
In September 2024, Grande addressed the controversy surrounding her relationship with Slater in an interview with Vanity Fair, dismissing rumors of infidelity and stating, “The most disappointing part is seeing how many people believe it.”
Despite past challenges, Grande and Slater have remained focused on their careers. At the New York premiere of ‘Wicked,’ Slater was photographed embracing Grande on the red carpet. During the Los Angeles premiere, Grande spoke highly of her co-star, saying, “Slater is always wonderful, and he’s incredible in this film. I’m so happy for everyone to see his talent.”
Grande has long been known for her committed relationships and even dedicated her 2019 hit song ‘Thank U, Next’ to the lessons learned from past relationships.
Regarding Slater, sources suggest that he has grown deeply attached to the pop star. In October 2024, following Grande’s appearance on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ a source told Page Six that the two seemed very happy together during the after-party.
At the Sydney premiere of ‘Wicked’ on November 3, Slater was photographed assisting Grande with her dress, further solidifying their close bond. When asked about his thoughtful gesture, Grande responded, “I always feel taken care of.”
While their relationship has sparked mixed reactions, supporters argue that happiness is what truly matters. As both continue their professional journeys, fans eagerly anticipate their performances in ‘Wicked.’
