Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater captured global attention. Their relationship sparked intense discussion among fans and media. It began professionally on a film set and quickly evolved into a closely watched romance. This timeline explores their journey together, covering their meeting, personal shifts, and public moments.
A Fateful Meeting on the Yellow Brick Road
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater first connected professionally. They met while filming the Wicked movie adaptation. Production work began in the United Kingdom. Grande embraced the iconic role of Glinda the Good Witch. Slater stepped into the character of Boq, a Munchkin resident. Both actors were married to other people at this time. Grande was married to Dalton Gomez. Slater was married to his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay. Initial interactions were friendly and collaborative. They focused on bringing the beloved musical to the screen. Their shared work environment fostered a connection. This bond grew stronger during the months of filming.
Wicked Filming Commences: December 2022
The cameras started rolling for Wicked in late 2022. The ambitious two-part film required intense dedication. Grande fully immersed herself in the role of Glinda. She spent considerable time perfecting her performance. Slater worked alongside her, developing his portrayal of Boq. The cast spent long hours together on set. This environment naturally built camaraderie among the actors. Grande was still publicly known as Mrs. Dalton Gomez. Slater was living with his wife, Lilly Jay, and their newborn son. Their professional relationship was developing. Hints of a deeper personal connection remained private initially.
Personal Shifts: Separations Become Public in July 2023
Summer 2023 brought significant changes for both stars. News outlets reported Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez had separated. TMZ broke the story first. Other reliable sources quickly confirmed the split. Reports indicated the couple had tried reconciliation. Ultimately, they decided parting ways was best. Around the same time, news surfaced about Grande’s new relationship. Sources revealed she had recently started dating Ethan Slater. Slater had also separated from his wife, Lilly Jay. He officially filed for divorce in July 2023. This overlap caused considerable public speculation and debate.
Solidifying Their Bond: Moving In Together by October 2023
Their relationship progressed quickly through the fall. By October 2023, Grande and Slater were reportedly living together. They chose New York City as their shared base. Insiders described their connection as serious and growing. Both appeared very happy in the relationship. Grande actively supported Slater’s professional endeavors. She attended the opening night of his Broadway show Spamalot. She was also seen at rehearsals, cheering him on. These public displays signaled their increasing closeness. They started building a life together away from the film set.
A Deepening Connection: The Relationship Grows Serious in Late 2023
As 2023 drew to a close, their bond strengthened further. Sources close to the couple confirmed the relationship’s seriousness. Grande was reportedly profoundly invested in the romance. She seemed fully committed to Slater. Public sightings included Grande spending time with Slater’s family. This suggested integration into each other’s personal lives. Their connection expanded beyond just a romantic pairing. It became a significant part of their worlds. They navigated the complexities of their public profiles together.
Grande Responds Musically: “Yes, And?” Arrives January 2024
Ariana Grande released her single “Yes, And?” in early 2024. The song marked her return to solo music. Fans and critics quickly analyzed the lyrics. Many interpreted them as a direct commentary. Grande seemed to address the intense public scrutiny. She sang about ignoring judgment and staying authentic. The lyrics declared she would not hide her life. This song signaled a defiant stance against negative attention. It became an anthem for living unapologetically. It set the tone for her album Eternal Sunshine.
Setting the Record Straight: Grande Speaks Out in September 2024
Ariana Grande offered more insight later that year. She spoke candidly in a Vanity Fair interview published in September 2024. Grande discussed the media’s handling of her relationship. She expressed frustration with inaccurate stories. She felt narratives misrepresented the end of her marriage. Grande emphasized the unfair speculation surrounding her and Slater. She also praised Slater’s unwavering support. He remained a positive force during challenging times. Her words aimed to provide clarity on her perspective.
Slater Shares His Perspective: October 2024 Interview
Ethan Slater also opened up about their relationship. He gave an interview to GQ magazine in October 2024. Slater spoke warmly about Ariana Grande. He praised her immense talent beyond music. He highlighted her exceptional comedic abilities. Slater called her one of the best comedians working today. He acknowledged the emotional toll of intense public focus. He expressed deep admiration for Grande. Slater commended her dedication to the Wicked project. His comments offered his view on their partnership.
Wicked Premieres: Public Appearances in November 2024
The highly anticipated Wicked movie premiered in November 2024. Grande and Slater attended the major premieres together. They walked the red carpets in Los Angeles and New York. The couple shared affectionate moments for photographers. These appearances offered rare public glimpses of their dynamic. Grande also shared personal photos from the Wicked set. Her social media included pictures with Slater and castmates. These posts celebrated their shared professional achievement. They showcased their bond formed during filming.
December 2024: Holidays and Future Plans
The couple transitioned into the holiday season together. Paparazzi spotted them shopping for a Christmas tree in New York City. They appeared relaxed and happy enjoying festive activities. Sources indicated they focused on celebrating Wicked‘s success. They also cherished their growing personal connection. Reports in mid-December 2024 suggested marriage could be in their future. However, insiders stated they felt no pressure to rush engagement. They seemed content building their relationship steadily. As of early 2025, they continue to support each other. They balance professional commitments with their private life. Public interest remains high as their story unfolds further.