Ariana Grande and her boyfriend Ethan Slater, who both star in Wicked, were spotted sharing sweet moments during the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
Although they’ve been romantically linked for months, this was their first major public appearance together, even though they’ve been a couple since meeting on the Wicked set in London.
The couple has yet to go red carpet official, but their closeness was undeniable, especially during the commercial breaks of the star-studded event.
The Drama Behind Their Relationship
Their romance has attracted significant attention due to its complicated beginnings.
Ethan was still married to his high school sweetheart, Lilly Jay, at the time he and Ariana became romantically involved.
Lilly, who is the mother of Ethan’s two-year-old son, Ezra, opened up in a deeply personal essay about the emotional impact of the split, revealing her shock at her husband’s relationship with a celebrity. Ethan’s divorce was finalized in September 2023.
Ariana, too, has faced her own relationship challenges.
After ending her marriage to Dalton Gomez in October 2023, Ariana, who was previously engaged to Pete Davidson, has navigated heartbreak in the public eye.
Despite the ups and downs, she has remained focused on her career and her personal life, with her new relationship with Ethan being a source of public intrigue.
Ethan’s Excitement for Ariana’s Oscars Performance
Despite the drama surrounding their relationship, Ethan couldn’t contain his excitement when Ariana took the stage at the Oscars.
As part of the Wicked cast, Ariana, alongside Cynthia Erivo, delivered a mesmerizing performance with medleys of iconic songs like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Defying Gravity.”
Ethan shared his enthusiasm with ET, expressing how thrilled he was to see the two women perform live.
He was full of praise, saying, “Anybody who’s been to any of their concerts knows those two can deliver in a way that nobody else can.”
Ariana’s Fashion at the Oscars
Ariana wowed the crowd in a stunning custom Schiaparelli gown, only to switch to a second, equally breathtaking ensemble featuring 150,000 sequins and a surprise ruby slipper at the back.
Her two dazzling looks only added to her charm as she graced the stage.
Wicked’s Oscars Recognition
While Ariana didn’t win the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, losing out to Zoe Saldaña of Emilia Pérez, Wicked still had a triumphant night.
The film received 10 nominations and took home two major awards, including Best Production Design for Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales, and Best Costume Design for Paul Tazewell.
The recognition was a huge win for the team behind the highly anticipated musical.
What’s Next for Ariana and Ethan
Looking ahead, Ariana is preparing for the release of the deluxe edition of her seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine.
Ethan will soon make his television debut in the Good Wife spin-off Elsbeth, set to air on April 10, 2025.
Despite not winning an Oscar this year, Ariana’s performance and presence at the event were certainly unforgettable, leaving a lasting impact on the Hollywood scene.