The couple met and became friends while filming the upcoming ‘Wicked’ movie in London
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s relationship remains strong as they make efforts to navigate it while in the public spotlight, according to multiple sources informed by PEOPLE.
A friend of the couple, who initially met on the set of the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, emphasized that the public perception of their relationship differs significantly from reality. They are primarily focused on managing their new relationship discreetly.
Addressing questions about the timing of their romance, a close family friend mentioned that Ariana Grande, aged 30, and Tony nominee Ethan Slater, aged 31, were friends and colleagues before they became romantically involved. Their romantic relationship commenced after both had separated from their respective partners – Grande from her husband Dalton Gomez and Slater from his wife Lilly Jay.
An additional source close to the situation explained that Grande and Slater are striving to strike a balance between being in the public eye and maintaining respect for all parties involved.
Another acquaintance informed PEOPLE that Ethan Slater remains dedicated to his infant son, who was born in August 2022 and whom he welcomed with Lilly Jay. The friend emphasized that co-parenting his son will always be Slater’s top priority.
In January, Ariana Grande officially parted ways with Dalton Gomez, a 28-year-old luxury real estate agent, whom she had married in May 2021. This separation was confirmed by a source shortly after the Grammy-winning artist’s new relationship became public knowledge earlier in the summer.
Following the news of Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez’s separation, a source informed PEOPLE that the decision to part ways was amicable. The insider explained that the marriage simply didn’t work out once the Grammy winner had to film Wicked in London, creating a long-distance dynamic. However, they added that Ariana had nothing but kind words for Dalton, stating that he was her biggest supporter during their marriage.
Ariana Grande is slated to take on the role of Glinda, while Ethan Slater will portray Boq in Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical, Wicked. Filming for the movie commenced in the U.K. in 2022, with plans for a November 2024 release. However, the impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike on its premiere remains uncertain.
