Ethan Slater isn't helping the speculations about his relationship with Ariana Grande.
The Broadway performer and the sensational singer have been keeping fans on their toes about the status of their once highly publicized romance. There have been rampant breakup rumors, yet no word from the couple.
Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande began trending as a romantic item in 2023 following the end of their respective marriages. They used to proudly flaunt their bond for all to see; however, they have been quiet for months now.
Ethan Slater Refuses To Address The Status Of His Relationship With Ariana Grande
Slater had the perfect moment to clear up the speculations about his relationship with Grande when he appeared on the "Today" show. He stopped by to promote his new movie "Wicked: For Good," where he met Grande on the set of the first installment.
When asked to share his experience working with his girlfriend on the movie, Slater danced around the question to offer a more professional answer. Instead of focusing on Grande, he declared that it was fantastic working with everyone on the cast.
Although Slater gave an acceptable answer, TMZ reported that his response reignited the breakup rumors. Many speculated that the actor dodged the question because he and Grande were keeping their split under wraps to avoid impacting the promotions for their new movie.
Sources Claimed The Famous Pair Had Considered Getting Married
When Slater and Grande stopped their PDA, sources emerged to claim they had gone their separate ways. The Blast covered these allegations in October, reporting that an insider claimed the duo's whirlwind romance had ended due to their differences.
"Ariana and Ethan have been on and off for most of this year," the insider claimed. They explained that Slater wasn't there to support Grande's big win at the 2025 MTV VMAs "because they'd had an argument just days before."
The insider described their union as "hot and cold," noting that they had reconciled after the event only to be on the outs again. "At one time they discussed marriage, but that is no longer on the table," the insider continued, claiming their loved-up days were over.
The Co-Stars' Relationship Was Labeled 'Toxic'
According to the insider, the once-loving bond between Slater and Grande was no more, as their union had turned "toxic." They explained that they were only putting on an appearance until "Wicked: For Good" hits the theaters, stating that it was highly doubtful they would reconcile after the movie.
"The relationship is unhealthy for both," the insider alleged. Grande and Slater became an item in 2023 following their first meeting on the set of the first installment of "Wicked." Despite the timing of their romance sparking "homewrecker" speculations, they happily flaunted their connection.
From attending award shows as an item to Grande showing off pictures of Slater on Instagram, it seemed the duo would beat the test of time. They were last seen together in April when they attended a preview of "Little Shop of Horrors" to support Grande's Nickelodeon co-star, Liz Gillies.
The 'Thank U, Next' Hitmaker Addressed Her Touchy Relationship With Cynthia Erivo
Slater wasn't the only co-star Grande developed a close relationship with on the "Wicked" set, as she frequently made waves for her friendship with Cynthia Erivo. During promotions for the first and second installments of the franchise, the duo turned heads for always touching.
From holding hands to sharing hugs, Grande and Erivo couldn't stay away from each other. As for why they enjoyed physical contact, the singer explained her side of the story during a recent appearance on Amy Poehler's "Good Hang" podcast.
When the host asked about her close bond with Erivo, Grande revealed that she was the type to express support through physical contact. "I channel a lot of energy through my hands," she explained, stating that she had to hold someone's hand and would unconsciously reach for the closest person.
Ariana Grande Announces Covid-19 Diagnosis After Co-Star's Illness
The close bond between Grande and Erivo saw them frequently supporting each other, with the singer dropping out of a promotional event because her pal was ill. The Blast shared that after this beautiful display of affection, Grande came down with COVID.
The entertainer broke the news on her Instagram Story, sharing a picture from her recent appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon." The caption read, "moments before Covid," confirming she had tested positive for the virus.
Naturally, Grande's diagnosis sparked immediate changes to the movie's promotional tour. She was forced to pull out of an upcoming Q&A event and could not join Erivo for a scheduled appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show."
When will Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater address their relationship status?