Ariana Grande, aged 31 as of 2025, and Ethan Slater, aged 32, have captured headlines since they began dating in July 2023. Their love story started on the set of the movie adaptation of Wicked, where they star as Glinda and Boq. The relationship, which came to light shortly after Grande’s split from ex-husband Dalton Gomez and Slater’s separation from his ex-wife Lilly Jay, has drawn widespread public interest. Grande, with an estimated net worth of $240 million, continues to dominate the music and entertainment industry, while Slater, a Tony-nominated actor, balances his growing career with his responsibilities as a father.
Key Takeaways
- A Creative Bond: Grande and Slater’s relationship flourished on the set of Wicked, underscoring their shared passion for storytelling and performance.
- Navigating Challenges: Both stars faced public scrutiny during the early days of their romance but have remained committed to building a strong partnership.
- Blending Roles: Slater balances his career and role as a father, while Grande embraces her evolving relationship and continues to excel in her music and acting career.
- Public and Private: The couple maintains a balance between their private lives and public appearances, offering fans glimpses of their connection without overexposure.
Meeting on Wicked
The couple first met while filming Wicked in the U.K. in 2022, where Grande plays Glinda, and Slater portrays Boq, a Munchkin with a crush on her character. While they initially kept their relationship private, sparks reportedly flew during production, culminating in a romance that was publicly confirmed in July 2023.
Slater praised Grande’s talent during an October 2024 interview with GQ, calling her “a comedian who’s also got this crazy voice that can do anything.” The couple made their first red-carpet appearance at the Wicked premiere in Los Angeles in November 2024, where Grande affectionately straightened Slater’s tie—a moment that delighted fans.
Ethan’s Broadway Background
Before his role in Wicked, Slater was best known for originating the role of SpongeBob SquarePants in the 2017 Broadway musical. His performance earned him a Tony nomination and a Drama Desk Award, solidifying his status as a rising star in the theater world.
Slater’s path to success began at Vassar College, where he landed the role of SpongeBob during a theater apprenticeship. His passion for performing and his comedic timing have since made him a standout in the entertainment industry.
A Complex Timeline
Grande and Slater’s relationship has not been without controversy. Slater filed for divorce from his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay, in July 2023, shortly after news of his romance with Grande surfaced. Jay, who had been married to Slater since 2018 and welcomed their son in August 2022, later spoke publicly about the impact of the divorce, writing about her experience in an essay for The Cut in December 2024.
Despite the scrutiny, sources close to the couple have clarified that both Grande and Slater were separated from their previous partners before their relationship began.
Slater as a Dad
Slater is the proud father of a son, born in August 2022. Sharing his experiences as a parent, he called fatherhood “the best thing in the world” in his October 2024 GQ interview. While co-parenting with his ex-wife has been a challenge, Slater emphasized the importance of navigating this journey with care and commitment.
Grande has reportedly embraced Slater’s role as a father, with sources noting that the couple has worked to create a supportive dynamic for his son.
Shared Public Moments
While both Grande and Slater value privacy, they’ve made a handful of public appearances together. In June 2024, they attended Game One of the Stanley Cup Final, supporting the Florida Panthers while dressed in team gear. Their relaxed, fun-loving demeanor during the event offered fans a glimpse into their playful side as a couple.
Additionally, Slater joined Grande at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where her hit single “Flowers” from her Endless Summer Vacation album won two awards. Though the couple didn’t walk the red carpet together, they were photographed sharing a kiss at their table during the ceremony.
Grande’s Life with Slater
Grande has described her relationship with Slater as a refreshing and supportive partnership. In a November 2024 Harper’s Bazaar interview, she reflected on their age difference, noting that Slater’s tech-savvy background contrasts with her childhood experiences. Despite these differences, she appreciates his perspective and sense of humor.
The couple reportedly moved in together in February 2024, with insiders describing their dynamic as harmonious and grounded. Friends and family have expressed admiration for Slater’s private nature and his ability to provide stability in Grande’s fast-paced world.
Future Prospects
As of 2025, Grande and Slater’s relationship appears to be going strong, fueled by their shared passion for the arts and mutual support. With the highly anticipated release of Wicked on the horizon, both stars are poised to enjoy professional success while navigating their personal lives together.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s romance is a testament to the unpredictability of life and love. From their initial meeting on the set of Wicked to their journey as a couple navigating public attention, they have shown resilience and mutual admiration. As of 2025, the duo is enjoying both personal and professional milestones, proving that love can thrive even in the spotlight. With Wicked set to captivate audiences, their shared journey is only just beginning.