Ariana Grande’s relationship with her “Wicked” co-star continues to capture public attention nearly two years after it began. Recently, they attended an event, posing for photos and publicly embracing. While some fans admire their connection, others criticize the circumstances of its beginnings, leaving public opinion divided.

Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater first crossed paths on the set of “Wicked,” the highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. The two were cast as Glinda and Boq, and filming began in late 2022.

While the details of their relationship unfolded gradually, the buzz around their connection quickly outpaced the promotion of the movie. The events that followed—and the reactions from fans and critics—have made their relationship one of the most talked-about topics in recent years.

From Co-Stars to a Couple: How They Met

Grande and Slater met while filming the movie adaptation of “Wicked,” which began production in December 2022. Grande was cast as Glinda, the Good Witch, while Slater portrayed Boq, a lovestruck munchkin with a pivotal role in the storyline.

Their collaboration on set reportedly extended beyond rehearsals, with insiders claiming the pair’s connection grew over time. By mid-2023, the pair’s relationship had turned romantic, coinciding with personal changes in their lives.

Both were reportedly separated from their spouses when their connection deepened, although the timing raised questions from fans and media alike. On set, their growing bond was glaringly obvious, with reports suggesting that their interactions occasionally blurred the lines between professional and personal.

One insider noted that “Ariana and Ethan weren’t careful,” pointing out that the co-stars would occasionally hold hands or interact warmly between takes. As details of their relationship surfaced, the backlash was swift, with many focusing on the circumstances surrounding Slater’s divorce and Grande’s involvement.

The Controversy: Timing and Backlash

The timeline of Grande and Slater’s relationship has drawn sharp criticism due to its overlap with their respective divorces. Grande filed for divorce from Dalton Gomez in September 2023, citing irreconcilable differences.

Legal documents revealed their separation date as February of the same year, suggesting a months-long effort to settle amicably. Around the same time, Slater filed for divorce from Lilly Jay, his wife of five years, in July 2023.

This came just months after publicly celebrating his wife’s first Mother’s Day in May, calling her “the most loving, caring, and wonderful mom/person in the world.” The couple had been high school sweethearts and shared a child born in 2022.

Reports of Slater’s relationship with Grande emerged just days before his filing, fueling speculation and criticism. When news of Grande and Slater’s relationship broke, the backlash was immediate and intense.

November 2024 Viral Clip: Divided Opinions

In November 2024, a video of Slater interacting with fans went viral on X, reigniting public debates about his relationship with Grande. In the clip, Slater is seen mingling with fans and even taking selfies, which many viewers described as a sweet and approachable moment.

However, the responses to the video highlighted the stark divide in public opinion regarding the couple. Supporters praised Slater’s demeanor and expressed admiration for his relationship with Grande.

“He’s so nice, and every little interview I see makes me [notice] how perfect he is for Ariana,” one fan posted, while another wrote, “OMG!!! They’re perfect for each other; also, he’s ADORABLE!” Some fans even likened him to Grande, with one comment noting, “He is kinda like Ariana’s male version.”

“Why does he have a similar mannerism to Ari?” one fan asked. Another commented, “He’s literally Ariana in male version,” while others noted their similar energy and shared quirks, which seemed to validate their connection in the eyes of some.

Some fans even highlighted Grande’s potential motivations, with one writing, “I think everyone needs to realize Ariana probably goes for a sweet and funny type instead of the looks.”

Others noted his gentle nature with one saying, “He was gonna pull his phone for the selfie😭😭 omg he’s so sweet I’m crying 😭😭😭” while another one added, “I love how everyone finally [finds] out that Ethan is actually the nicest person ever while I knew it since he was Spongebob.”

On the other hand, detractors were quick to criticize, with many referencing his past. “He left his wife and newborn baby[—]is that sweet?” one user asked, echoing statements such as, “Cute and sweet? Didn’t he cheat and abandon his pregnant wife for Arianna Grande?”

“[You] guys do not get to switch up now[—]he LEFT HIS WIFE AND BABY,” another comment read. Another X user said, “[I don’t care] that he seems sweet; this man cheated on his wife who just had a baby. As much as love Ari, a big NO.”

The clip amplified existing tensions between fans and critics, showcasing how deeply polarizing the couple remains. Despite the lighthearted nature of the video, the comments reflected a lingering unease about the circumstances of Slater’s divorce and the public perception of his romance with Grande.

Public Appearances: Love in the Spotlight

Grande and Slater’s relationship has steadily moved from behind-the-scenes whispers to public outings, further fueling interest and controversy. Their first major appearance as a couple was in October 2023, shortly after Grande finalized her divorce.

The pair were spotted enjoying a casual dinner date in New York City. In December 2023 the couple dined with Grande’s father, Ed Butera, at her family’s favorite Italian restaurant before attending a performance of Slater’s musical, “Spamalot.”

A source close to Grande noted, “They love to support each other in their work.” In June 2024, the couple attended Game One of the Stanley Cup Finals in Florida. This outing came just days after Grande released the music video for her single “The Boy Is Mine,” which fans speculated was inspired by her romance with Slater.

Most recently, in January 2025, the couple made waves at the National Board of Review Awards Gala in New York City. Photographers captured an intimate moment as the two posed together, with Grande resting her eyes as Slater smiled warmly for the camera.

These appearances have placed Slater under increased scrutiny, shifting focus from their relationship to his career and personal life. This attention has raised questions about who Slater is beyond the headlines.

Ethan Slater: A Closer Look

Slater’s career extends beyond his recent public notoriety as Ariana Grande’s boyfriend. A Broadway talent, Slater is best known for his Tony-nominated performance as the titular character in “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical.”

His comedic timing and vocal range earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a skilled performer. In addition to his theater work, Slater has appeared in projects like “Fosse/Verdon” and the live stage recording of “The SpongeBob Musical.”

Slater’s admiration for Grande extends beyond their personal relationship. In an interview with GQ, he expressed respect for her talent and work ethic, calling her “a genius.”

Reflecting on their collaboration in “Wicked,” Slater praised Grande’s dedication and the transformative work she poured into the role of Glinda. “I’m really, really proud of Ari and the work she’s done on this,” he shared.

Despite Slater’s professional achievements, public attention has largely focused on his personal life. His ex-wife, Jay, is a clinical psychologist specializing in women’s mental health.

Although their split coincided with the start of his romance with Grande, sources close to the couple have consistently maintained that Slater and Jay were separated before his relationship with Grande began.

Jay, however, has indirectly addressed the situation through an essay published more than a year after their divorce became public. Without naming Slater, she reflected on the challenges of navigating postpartum life alongside a marriage that ended unexpectedly.

She wrote, “No one gets married thinking they’ll get divorced, especially not just after giving birth.” Despite the pain of their separation, she emphasized their shared commitment to co-parenting their son.

“Both of us fiercely love our son 100 percent of the time,” she wrote, adding that she continues to find joy in her role as a mother despite the life changes. Slater has largely avoided commenting publicly on the controversies surrounding his personal life. However, colleagues have spoken positively about his character.

Lilli Cooper, who worked alongside him in “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical,” expressed surprise at his new relationship but noted that he has always been a kind and professional coworker.

Grande’s Defense and Public Statements

In response to the intense media scrutiny surrounding their relationship, Grande has taken a firm stance, addressing the controversies head-on. During a September 2024 interview with Vanity Fair, she rejected tabloid claims that Slater abandoned his family to be with her.

“The most disappointing part was to see so many people believe the worst version of it,” she said. Grande avoided discussing specific allegations but strongly defended Slater’s character. She described him as “someone with the best heart” and praised his dedication to the people he loves.

“There couldn’t be a less accurate depiction of a human being than the one that the tabloids spread about him,” she added. She also reflected on the challenges of living under constant public scrutiny. Grande explained how years of tabloid culture had shaped her experience with fame, starting when she was a teenager.

“I’m not a perfect person, but I am definitely deeply good, and I’m proud of who I’m becoming,” she shared. She credited personal growth with helping her endure negativity and remain focused on her happiness.

Grande made it clear that she refuses to let media narratives define her life. “I will never let disreputable evil tabloids ruin my life or my perception of what is real and good,” she said.

Her statements have done little to quell public debates, but they offer a glimpse into her perspective on the controversy. Grande seems determined to focus on her happiness and the support she and Slater provide each other, despite the swirling criticism.