education | March 15, 2026

Ariana Grande Addresses Dalton Gomez, Ethan Slater Drama Assumptions

Ariana Grande has recently faced criticism. People have been making assumptions about her, especially after she started dating Ethan Slater. This happened shortly after she separated from her now ex-husband, Dalton Gomez.

Grande took to Instagram to express her feelings. She said, “I have never felt more pride of joy or live while simultaneously feeling so deeply misunderstood by people who don’t know me.” She was referring to those who make assumptions about her life based on whispers and rumors.

The “7 Rings” singer clarified that she knows what’s more important. She emphasized that she feels protected and loved by her friends, family, and fans. She also mentioned that she feels safe, even amidst things she’d usually be afraid of.

She’s learning to listen to and trust herself. She’s focusing on reacting only to things that deserve her energy. She’s also protecting herself from things that don’t.

The “Thank U, Next” singer admitted to feeling misunderstood. She also reflected on the challenging year she had after divorcing Gomez. Despite the challenges, she described the year as transformative and special.

Grande expressed her fulfillment with her work. She’s been filming “Wicked” over the past year. She said, “I gave everything I could have possibly given of my heart and of myself to the projects I was fortunate enough to be a part of.”

She met Slater, her “Wicked” co-star, on set. She’s playing Glinda in the movie musical. In conclusion, she said, “I feel more human than ever. I feel more deeply than ever. I feel softer and stronger, all at once.”

Page Six confirmed Grande and Slater’s relationship in July. At the time, Grande was separated from Gomez, and Slater had also split from his wife, Lilly Jay. Slater filed for divorce in July, leaving Jay completely blindsided. Grande filed for divorce in September, which was finalized a month later.

The couple has since gone public with their relationship. They were even spotted grabbing dinner in New York City with Grande’s dad, Ed Butera. A source said, “They had dinner with her dad and family at her family’s favorite Italian restaurant. They love to support each other in their work.”