Ariana Grande and her boyfriend, Ethan Slater, were recently spotted at New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, putting on a united front after the singer received backlash for their relationship. Despite the controversy, the couple appeared to be keeping a low profile, dressed in matching black outfits and face masks. Their sighting comes after Ariana released a new song, “Yes, And?”, which seemingly addresses their relationship and the speculation surrounding it.
At the airport, Ariana and Ethan were greeted by the singer’s mom, Joan Grande, who presented them with bouquets of flowers and balloons. The couple seemed to want to avoid attention as they made their way through the airport with their dog, Toulouse. Ariana, sporting a “Wicked” baseball cap, tried to shield herself from the public eye. This display of unity could be seen as a response to the criticism they both have faced in recent weeks.
The Controversial Song
Ariana’s new song, “Yes, And?”, has only fueled the online chatter surrounding her relationship with Ethan. The lyrics of the song suggest that she is addressing the critics who question the timing of their relationship and whether it began while they were still married to other people. She sings, “Your business is yours, and mine is mine. Why do you care so much whose – I ride?” These lines have led listeners to assume that she is referring to her love life and the judgments others have made about it. However, instead of silencing the critics, the song has only intensified the backlash.
Social media has been filled with negative comments about Ariana, labeling her a “homewrecker” for allegedly breaking up Ethan’s marriage with his estranged wife, Lilly Jay. Fans have expressed their anger, calling her “ugly” and “nasty.” The judgment has been harsh, with critics reminding Ariana of her actions. While Ariana may have intended for the song to address the critics, it seems to have further fueled the fire.
A Relationship Born on Set
Ariana and Ethan’s relationship started on the set of the film adaptation of “Wicked” in London last year. Their romance became public knowledge when Page Six confirmed their dating status in July. At the time, Ariana was still married to Dalton Gomez, while Ethan was married to Lilly Jay. Following the revelation, Ariana and Dalton divorced in October, while Ethan filed for divorce from Lilly a few days after their relationship surfaced. This sudden turn of events left Lilly feeling blindsided, as she referred to Ariana as “not a girls’ girl” and accused her of using her family as “collateral damage.”
Ariana’s Reflection
Ariana has been vocal about the misunderstandings and assumptions that people have made about her life. In a 2023 Instagram Story post, she expressed her pride and joy but also her frustration at being misunderstood by those who don’t know her personally. She acknowledged feeling protected and loved by her friends, family, and fans. Despite the ongoing hate, Ariana continues to stand by Ethan and has been seen supporting him at his performances for “Spamalot” in November.
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater have faced significant backlash for their relationship, with Ariana being labeled a homewrecker on social media. However, the couple remains united, as demonstrated by their public appearance at the airport. Ariana’s song, “Yes, And?”, was an attempt to address the critics, but it seems to have only added fuel to the fire. Amidst the controversy, Ariana finds solace in the support of her loved ones and remains committed to her relationship with Ethan.