- Sources report that the romance between Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater has become “rocky.”
- Grande’s massive global success is allegedly making Slater, a Broadway actor, feel “small” in comparison.
- The couple unexpectedly canceled their planned red carpet debut at the Ragtime opening, sparking further speculation.
- Insiders suggest they may be “holding on” until after the release of “Wicked: Part Two” to avoid negative press for the film.
Trouble in Paradise for Grande and Slater
The whirlwind romance between pop superstar Ariana Grande and Broadway actor Ethan Slater is reportedly facing significant turbulence. What began on the magical set of “Wicked” is now navigating the harsh realities of their vastly different levels of fame, with insiders claiming the relationship is on shaky ground.
A Widening Gap Between Two Worlds
The core of the issue, according to sources close to the couple, is the growing disparity between their professional lives. While Grande operates in a stratosphere of “private jets, studios, [and] movie sets,” Slater remains grounded in the theater world. This chasm is reportedly becoming more difficult to bridge.
“He adores her,” one friend shared, but noted that “the dynamic’s changed. She’s global — he’s feeling small.”
This strain was seemingly on public display when the pair, who were expected to make their official red carpet debut at the Ragtime opening at Lincoln Center, abruptly canceled. An insider revealed to Rob Shuter’s #ShuterScoop that “their names were printed on the guest list. Seats were held.” However, just hours before the event, word came that they weren’t coming, with “no explanation. Just silence.”
Signs of Strain and a Convenient Timeline
This isn’t the first time Slater’s absence at a major event for Grande has raised eyebrows. He was notably missing from the 2024 VMAs, a significant night where Grande was honored and supported by her family. A music insider commented on the situation, stating, “Everyone clocked it… Ethan’s empty chair said it all.”
With whispers of trouble growing louder, some sources speculate that the relationship’s future is tied to their upcoming film. A close friend mentioned, “They’re holding on for Wicked 2. The studio doesn’t want breakup headlines overshadowing Wicked Part Two.” The source added that many close to them “doubt this will last beyond the release.”
Are They Still Together?
Despite the mounting rumors of a rocky patch, a source speaking to Entertainment Tonight offered a different perspective, clarifying that “Ariana and Ethan are still together and very happy with each other and support each other no matter what.” This conflicting report leaves fans in suspense, watching to see if the couple can overcome the pressures of fame or if their romance is destined to end when the cameras stop rolling.
Image Referance: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/ariana-grande-boyfriend-feeling-small-062449443.html