Introduction to Ariana Grande’s Love Life
Ariana Grande, a global pop icon, has captivated fans with her music and personal life. Her relationships, often in the spotlight, spark curiosity worldwide. Currently, Ariana Grande’s boyfriend is Ethan Slater, her Wicked co-star. Their romance, which began in 2023, has drawn attention due to its timing and public appearances. However, Grande’s dating history includes other notable figures like Pete Davidson and Dalton Gomez. This article dives into her romantic journey, offering a detailed look at her past and present partners. With a focus on authenticity and expertise, we’ll explore who Ariana Grande is dating now and why her love life fascinates fans.
Who Is Ariana Grande’s Boyfriend in 2025?
As of 2025, Ariana Grande’s boyfriend is Ethan Slater, a Broadway actor known for his role in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical. Their relationship began while filming Wicked in 2022, where Grande played Glinda and Slater portrayed Boq. Sources confirm they started dating in July 2023, after Grande’s separation from Dalton Gomez and Slater’s split from his wife, Lilly Jay. Despite early controversy, their bond has grown, with the couple living together full-time by late 2023. Slater publicly praised Grande’s dedication to Wicked at the 2025 Artios Awards, highlighting their mutual support. Their relationship continues to thrive during the Wicked press tour.
A Look at Ariana Grande’s Dating History
Ariana Grande’s romantic past is as vibrant as her music career. Since her teenage years, she has dated several high-profile figures. Each relationship has shaped her public image and inspired her chart-topping songs. From early flings to her marriage with Dalton Gomez, Grande’s love life reflects her growth as an artist and person. Notably, her relationships often intertwine with her creative output, with tracks like “Thank U, Next” referencing past partners. Below, we explore her key relationships, focusing on the men who have captured her heart and how these romances influenced her music and public persona.
Graham Phillips (2008–2011)
Grande’s first public relationship was with actor Graham Phillips. They met while starring in the Broadway musical 13 in 2008. At just 15, Grande began dating Phillips, who played her love interest in the show. Their romance lasted three years, ending amicably in 2011. Although young, this relationship marked Grande’s entry into the public eye. Fans admired their chemistry, but the breakup was low-key, with both focusing on their careers. Phillips later starred in Riverdale, while Grande rose to fame with Victorious. This early romance set the stage for her future high-profile relationships, showcasing her ability to balance love and ambition.
Jai Brooks (2012–2014)
Next, Grande dated Jai Brooks, a member of the Australian YouTube group The Janoskians. Their on-and-off relationship began in 2012, fueled by social media interactions. However, distance and busy schedules led to breakups in 2013 and 2014. Brooks publicly accused Grande of infidelity, which she denied, adding drama to their split. Despite the challenges, this relationship introduced Grande to a broader online audience. Her fans, known as Arianators, followed the saga closely, making it a defining moment in her early career. The experience likely influenced her resilience in handling public scrutiny over her love life.
Big Sean (2014–2015)
In 2014, Grande began dating rapper Big Sean, her collaborator on hits like “Right There.” Their romance, confirmed after months of speculation, was highly publicized. The couple shared a strong musical connection, with Big Sean featuring on Grande’s album My Everything. However, their relationship ended in April 2015 due to conflicting schedules. Despite the breakup, they remained friends, with Grande praising Big Sean’s talent in interviews. This relationship inspired songs like “Best Mistake,” reflecting their emotional depth. Fans loved their chemistry, but the split highlighted the challenges of maintaining love amidst demanding careers, a recurring theme in Grande’s relationships.
Mac Miller (2016–2018)
Grande’s relationship with rapper Mac Miller was one of her most significant. They started as friends, collaborating on “The Way” in 2013, before dating in 2016. Their bond was deep, with Grande calling Miller her best friend. However, Miller’s struggles with substance abuse strained their relationship, leading to a split in May 2018. Tragically, Miller passed away from an overdose in September 2018. Grande’s heartfelt tribute and songs like “Ghostin” from Thank U, Next reflect her grief. This relationship showcased her vulnerability and strength, resonating with fans who admired her openness about loss and healing.
Pete Davidson (2018)
Grande’s whirlwind romance with comedian Pete Davidson captivated the world in 2018. After meeting on Saturday Night Live, they got engaged within weeks. Their relationship, marked by matching tattoos and public affection, was a media frenzy. However, the engagement ended in October 2018, partly due to the emotional toll of Mac Miller’s death. Grande’s song “Thank U, Next” famously references Davidson, turning heartbreak into empowerment. Fans were divided, with some loving the romance’s intensity and others questioning its speed. This brief but impactful relationship highlighted Grande’s ability to navigate public scrutiny while channeling her emotions into her music.
Mikey Foster (2019–2020)
In 2019, Grande sparked romance rumors with Mikey Foster of Social House. Their collaboration on the single “Boyfriend” and its steamy music video fueled speculation. By early 2020, sources confirmed they had been dating since the previous summer. However, the relationship fizzled out by late 2020, with Grande moving on to Dalton Gomez. This romance was less publicized, offering Grande a brief respite from media attention. Fans appreciated the chemistry in their music, but the relationship remained low-key. Foster’s role in Grande’s Sweetener tour further tied their romance to her professional life, a pattern in her dating history.
Dalton Gomez (2020–2023)
Grande’s marriage to real estate agent Dalton Gomez was a significant chapter. They began dating in January 2020, got engaged by December, and married in May 2021 in a private ceremony. Their relationship, described as grounding, offered Grande stability during her Positions era. However, by January 2023, they separated, with divorce finalized later that year. Sources cited long-distance challenges, as Grande filmed Wicked in the UK. Despite the split, they remain respectful, prioritizing privacy. This marriage showcased Grande’s desire for a quieter personal life, contrasting with her earlier high-profile romances, though it ultimately faced similar pressures.
Ethan Slater: The Current Chapter
Ethan Slater, Ariana Grande’s current boyfriend, has become a focal point for fans. Their relationship began on the Wicked set, evolving from friendship to romance by July 2023. Slater, a Tony-nominated actor, shares Grande’s passion for the arts. Their public appearances, like the Wicked press tour, show a supportive partnership. For instance, Grande praised Slater’s performance in an Entertainment Tonight interview, while he celebrated her 2025 Oscar nomination. Despite early rumors, their timeline aligns with both being single post-separation. This relationship reflects Grande’s growth, balancing love with her thriving career.
How They Met: The Wicked Connection
Grande and Slater met in late 2022 while filming Wicked in the UK. Grande, cast as Glinda, and Slater, as Boq, bonded over their shared love for musical theater. Initially friends, their relationship turned romantic after Grande’s separation from Gomez and Slater’s split from his wife. Sources confirm they started dating in July 2023, with mutual respect and shared interests at the core. Their time on set, filled with long hours and creative collaboration, fostered a deep connection. Fans admire their chemistry, evident in Wicked promotional events, making this a pivotal moment in Grande’s love story.
Public Reaction to Their Romance
The announcement of Grande’s relationship with Slater sparked mixed reactions. Some fans celebrated the pairing, citing their shared passion for theater. Others questioned the timeline, as both had recently ended long-term relationships. Social media buzzed with speculation, with posts on X claiming Grande had moved on quickly. However, sources clarified that both were single before dating, dispelling rumors of overlap. Grande addressed the scrutiny in her album Eternal Sunshine, with songs like “Yes, And?” tackling media narratives. Over time, their public support for each other, especially during Wicked promotions, has softened criticism, winning over many fans.
How Ariana Grande’s Relationships Inspire Her Music
Grande’s love life heavily influences her music, turning personal experiences into universal anthems. Her album Thank U, Next directly references exes like Pete Davidson and Mac Miller, blending gratitude with empowerment. Similarly, Eternal Sunshine hints at her romance with Ethan Slater and her divorce from Dalton Gomez. Songs like “The Boy Is Mine” and “Yes, And?” reflect her emotional journey, addressing love and public scrutiny. By weaving her relationships into her lyrics, Grande connects with fans, offering authenticity and vulnerability. This creative outlet showcases her expertise as a storyteller, aligning with Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines for trustworthy content.
The Impact of “Thank U, Next”
Released in 2018, Thank U, Next became a cultural phenomenon. The title track name-drops exes like Davidson and Miller, celebrating lessons learned from past relationships. Its candid lyrics resonated with fans, earning praise for its honesty. The album topped the Billboard 200, proving Grande’s ability to transform heartbreak into art. By addressing her dating history, she established herself as an authoritative voice on love and growth. The song’s success also boosted her online visibility, aligning with SEO strategies that prioritize engaging, relevant content. Fans continue to reference the track when discussing her romantic past, cementing its legacy.
Eternal Sunshine and New Beginnings
Grande’s 2024 album Eternal Sunshine reflects her current chapter with Ethan Slater. Tracks like “Yes, And?” address media scrutiny over her relationship, while “The Boy Is Mine” hints at new love. The album’s introspective tone showcases Grande’s experience and emotional depth, aligning with E-E-A-T principles. Critics praised its maturity, and it debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. By incorporating her love life, Grande ensures her music remains relatable, driving fan engagement. This approach also optimizes her content for search engines, as fans search for terms like “Ariana Grande boyfriend” to learn more.
Why Ariana Grande’s Love Life Fascinates Fans
Grande’s relationships captivate fans due to her openness and vulnerability. Her ability to share personal struggles through music creates a strong connection with her audience. Additionally, her high-profile partners, from musicians to actors, keep her in the spotlight. Social media amplifies this interest, with posts on X often speculating about her dating status. For example, rumors about her and Slater spread rapidly in 2023, fueling discussions. Grande’s knack for turning personal experiences into chart-topping hits ensures her love life remains a topic of fascination, driving search traffic and engagement.
Tips for Writing About Celebrity Relationships
When covering topics like “Ariana Grande boyfriend,” SEO optimization is key. First, conduct keyword research using tools like Google Keyword Planner to identify terms like “Ariana Grande dating” or “Ethan Slater relationship.” Next, create high-quality content that balances facts with engaging storytelling. Use clear headings, like H2 and H3, to organize information. Incorporate related keywords naturally, maintaining a 0.5–2% density. Finally, align with Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines by citing credible sources, like People or Us Weekly. This approach ensures your article ranks well while providing value to readers, encouraging clicks and shares.
FAQs
Who is Ariana Grande’s boyfriend in 2025?
Ariana Grande’s boyfriend in 2025 is Ethan Slater, a Broadway actor. They began dating in July 2023 after meeting on the Wicked set.
How did Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater meet?
They met while filming Wicked in 2022, where Grande played Glinda and Slater portrayed Boq. Their friendship turned romantic in 2023.
Was Ariana Grande married before Ethan Slater?
Yes, Grande was married to Dalton Gomez from May 2021 to 2023. They separated in January 2023, finalizing their divorce later that year.
Does Ariana Grande’s music reference her boyfriends?
Absolutely. Songs like “Thank U, Next” and “The Boy Is Mine” draw inspiration from her relationships, including those with Pete Davidson and Ethan Slater.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande’s boyfriend, Ethan Slater, marks a new chapter in her storied romantic history. From her early days with Graham Phillips to her marriage with Dalton Gomez, Grande’s relationships have shaped her music and public image. Her ability to channel love and heartbreak into chart-topping hits keeps fans engaged. To stay updated on her latest romantic developments and music, follow credible sources like People and Us Weekly. Want to dive deeper into Ariana Grande’s love life? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and insights on your favorite pop star.
