Ariana Grande, the renowned singer, and her boyfriend, Ethan Slater, were photographed together at New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, seemingly trying to show that their relationship is strong despite the recent backlash they received. The couple, donning matching all-black outfits and face masks, was greeted by Ariana’s mom, Joan Grande, who presented them with two bouquets of flowers and balloons. The Grammy winner, perhaps wanting to maintain some anonymity, concealed her identity further by wearing a “Wicked” baseball cap. Their public appearance comes in the wake of Ariana’s new song, “Yes, And?”, which has stirred controversy regarding the nature of their relationship.
Earlier this month, Ariana released “Yes, And?”, and the lyrics hinted at her relationship with Slater and whether it started while they were still married to other people. She sings, “Your business is yours, and mine is mine. Why do you care so much whose d–k I ride?” These lyrics were interpreted by listeners as Ariana’s response to the criticism she received. However, far from silencing her detractors, the song only fueled more speculation and online chatter. This led to Ariana being labeled a “homewrecker” on social media, as fans theorized that her involvement was the cause of Slater’s failed marriage with his estranged wife, Lilly Jay. Comments such as “this woman is so ugly and nasty” and “you f–ked a whole-ass married man” filled the online space, creating a toxic environment for Ariana.
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater initially met on the set of the film adaptation of “Wicked” in London last year. Their relationship became public knowledge when Page Six confirmed in July that they were dating, with Ariana still being married to Dalton Gomez, and Slater to Jay. The subsequent divorce proceedings were swift, culminating in Ariana’s divorce being finalized in October 2023, just three days after her separation from Dalton Gomez was made public. Slater, on the other hand, filed for divorce from Jay soon after his involvement with the Grammy winner came to light. An insider described Jay as being “completely blindsided” by the turn of events, as their breakup left her feeling betrayed.
Lilly Jay did not remain silent about her estranged husband’s new relationship. In a public statement, she referred to Ariana as “not a girls’ girl,” implying that she had not acted in solidarity with her fellow women. Jay also accused the singer of using her family as “collateral damage” in the wake of their split. Ariana, on the other hand, took to Instagram Story in December to express her frustration with the misconceptions and assumptions made about her life by people who don’t know her. She wrote, “I have never felt more pride or joy or love while simultaneously feeling so deeply misunderstood.”
Despite the ongoing criticism and hate, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater have continued to proudly display their love for each other. They have been seen enjoying dinners together in New York City, refusing to let the negativity impact their relationship. Moreover, Ariana has been a supportive partner, attending Slater’s performances in “Spamalot” in November. Regardless of the public scrutiny, the couple remains resolute in the face of adversity.
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater have found themselves embroiled in a controversial relationship that has been met with backlash and criticism. However, they have chosen to confront the skepticism head-on, displaying a united front and persisting in their love for one another. While the public may continue to speculate and pass judgment, their commitment to each other remains unwavering.