Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater are making it clear they’re still very much together, despite persistent rumors suggesting otherwise. The Broadway actor quietly shut down breakup speculation by sharing rare, intimate glimpses of his life with the pop superstar over the holidays.
On Friday, December 26, Slater, 33, posted a series of cozy Instagram Stories featuring Grande, 32, enjoying low-key holiday moments. In one photo, the singer cuddled up with a dog, while another captured her laughing during a relaxed hangout. Grande looked effortlessly chic in an all-black outfit, pairing a fitted turtleneck with wide-leg trousers and towering platform heels. She finished the look with a white headband, pearl earrings, and her signature sleek updo.
“Very merry holidays,” Slater captioned one candid image showing Grande seated on a couch beside an unidentified man, both mid-laugh as they reacted to something off-camera. The understated post stood out precisely because of how rare it is for the couple to share their relationship publicly.
Grande and Slater’s romance first sparked on the set of Wicked in 2022, with sources confirming their relationship the following summer. Since then, they’ve largely kept things private online, making moments like this all the more notable. Earlier this year, Slater shared a heartfelt photo of Grande celebrating her Oscar nomination for Wicked, offering another rare look at their bond.
More recently, Slater was spotted supporting Grande during her hosting gig on Saturday Night Live on December 21. Behind-the-scenes photos from the night, shared by Grande’s longtime friend and former Victorious co-star Liz Gillies, showed Slater casually hanging out backstage alongside Gillies and actor Aaron Simon Gross. Other shots highlighted Grande in various costume changes throughout the night, giving fans an insider peek at the busy SNL set.
Gillies praised Grande’s performance in a heartfelt caption, calling the episode unforgettable and celebrating the festive atmosphere, surprise appearances, and emotional moments that made the night extra special.
Slater has also been openly enthusiastic about Wicked and the people behind it. At the New York City premiere of the film’s second installment in November, he spoke passionately about his co-stars, singling out Grande and Cynthia Erivo for their standout performances. He also touched on the deep friendship between the two actresses, noting that their connection extends far beyond the cameras and has helped them navigate the intense experience of bringing the beloved musical to life.
Between the holiday snapshots, public support, and glowing praise, Slater’s recent moves send a clear message: rumors aside, his relationship with Grande is still going strong.
