Ariana Grande, the renowned pop sensation, recently expressed her admiration for her boyfriend, Ethan Slater, through a heartfelt comment on his Instagram post. Slater, known for his role in the Broadway adaptation of “SpongeBob SquarePants,” shared a series of black-and-white photographs from his shoot with Schön! Magazine. In these images, he dons a long overcoat and scarf, exuding a classic, timeless appeal.
Grande, 31, responded to Slater’s post with enthusiasm, commenting, “the Buster Keaton of today!” This reference to the legendary silent film actor and comedian underscores her appreciation for Slater’s talent, particularly his prowess in physical comedy—a skill reminiscent of Keaton’s iconic performances. In a subsequent comment, she added, “!!! ♡,” further conveying her affection and support.
In the accompanying interview with the London-based fashion publication, Slater, 32, discussed his admiration for early film comedians, stating, “I was obsessed with Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy, Danny Kaye—these comedians in early film that I fell in love with and I’ve always emulated.” He acknowledged that his role in “SpongeBob” allowed him to channel this passion for physical comedy.
The couple’s relationship blossomed on the set of the film adaptation of the musical “Wicked,” where Grande portrays Glinda and Slater takes on the role of Boq. Their romance became public in July 2023, following their respective separations from previous partners. Grande had recently split from her then-husband, Dalton Gomez, while Slater filed for divorce from his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a son.
Their relationship has not been without controversy, facing public scrutiny and allegations of infidelity. In response to the backlash, Grande addressed the assumptions about her personal life, expressing that she felt “deeply misunderstood” during this period. She emphasized the importance of focusing on her work and personal growth, stating that she has never felt “more human and more deeply connected.”
Despite the challenges, Grande and Slater have continued to support each other’s careers. Slater expressed his pride in Grande’s performance in “Wicked,” which premiered in theaters on November 22, 2024. He shared behind-the-scenes photos from the set, including candid moments with castmates such as Cynthia Erivo and Grande, celebrating the film’s debut.
The couple has also made public appearances together, subtly confirming their relationship. In November 2024, they attended the Sydney premiere of “Wicked,” marking their first official event as a couple. Grande shared photos from the event on her Instagram, including one alongside Slater, signaling their commitment to each other both personally and professionally.
Their relationship has sparked discussions about the complexities of personal relationships in the public eye, especially when both individuals are navigating recent separations. Slater acknowledged the challenges of public scrutiny, emphasizing his focus on the real people in his life and doing right by them, rather than being swayed by public opinion.
As they continue to navigate their relationship amidst public interest, both Grande and Slater have demonstrated a commitment to their craft and to each other. Their mutual admiration and support are evident, not only in their public interactions but also in their dedication to their respective careers. Grande’s recent comment on Slater’s Instagram post serves as a testament to their deepening bond and shared appreciation for the arts.
In conclusion, Ariana Grande’s public display of affection towards Ethan Slater highlights the couple’s growing relationship, which has developed both on and off the set of “Wicked.” Despite facing public scrutiny and personal challenges, they continue to support each other’s endeavors, showcasing a partnership built on mutual respect and shared passions. As they move forward, their relationship serves as a reminder of the complexities of love in the limelight and the importance of focusing on personal growth and genuine connections.