At the recent Academy Awards, the enchanting atmosphere of Hollywood’s most glamorous night was complemented by the heartfelt connection between pop star Ariana Grande and actor Ethan Slater. Although the couple made their grand entrances separately, photographers captured a series of intimate exchanges between them before the ceremonies commenced. In what seemed to be a supportive and affectionate relationship, Grande, 31, was seen tenderly wrapping her arms around Slater’s neck, while he embraced her close, showcasing a rare moment of public affection.
Dressed to impress, Grande dazzled in an exquisite pale pink ballgown from Schiaparelli that featured a classic corseted design, specifically tailored to amplify her elegant persona. Her sleek bun and stunning diamond accessories—comprising a choker and matching stud earrings—truly encapsulated the essence of haute couture. In contrast, Slater, 32, opted for a minimalist look in a simple black-and-white suit, allowing the focus to remain on Grande’s eye-catching ensemble as they mingled with their “Wicked” collaborators.
As the night unfolded, Grande’s talent took the spotlight during her performance alongside Cynthia Erivo. Not one to shy away from the stage, she electrified the audience with a custom sequined red strapless gown, designed to echo the iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz.” Grande’s visual transformation throughout the evening—from her initial elegant ballgown to the striking sequined piece—symbolized not just her artistic versatility but also reflected her status as a major force in both music and film. The final look of the night featured a black sequined strapless gown, which further solidified her position as a style icon.
Ethan Slater’s admiration for Grande was palpable during the ceremony. Expressing his awe for her stage presence, he stated, “The one thing that I will say is to see these two women perform live… they can deliver in a way that nobody else can,” a sentiment that resonated with many attendees. His comments highlighted not only Grande’s impressive talent but also the supportive nature of their relationship.
A Rooted Connection Blossoms
The pair’s relationship emerged in July 2023, following their meeting on the set of the highly-anticipated movie “Wicked.” Since then, they have thoughtfully kept their romance largely under wraps, revealing only glimpses of their life together. This discreet approach to their relationship evidently underscores a mutual respect for privacy in an industry often fraught with scrutiny.
Their relationship continued to blossom, even amidst the hustle and bustle of award season events. Just a week prior to the Oscars, they were seen at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where they shared affectionate gestures, with Slater reportedly leaning in to check on Grande amidst a bustling crowd. Such moments, including him quietly advising her to stay close due to the crowd’s intensity, illustrate the protective nature he has taken on as a partner.
As they navigated the Oscar festivities, Grande’s triumphs were celebrated not just in her performance but also in her nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Glinda. Slater’s unwavering support throughout this awards season shines as the cornerstone of their relationship. Celebrating one another’s achievements has become an integral theme in their connection.
Furthermore, the public insights into their relationship reveal a couple firmly grounded in admiration and respect. Grande remarked on Slater’s supportive nature, referring to it as “such a gift,” which emphasizes the strong emotional foundation they have built together. As both artists thrive in their respective fields, it’s clear that their romantic relationship is not just one of love, but a symbiotic partnership that propels them to greater heights.
As Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater continue their journey as both partners and collaborators, their recent appearances at public events speak volumes about the strength of their bond. With every shared moment captured on camera, it becomes increasingly clear that their relationship is rooted in a profound understanding of each other’s artistry and personal growth. As they navigate the glitz and glamour of Hollywood together, audiences eagerly await not just their professional endeavors but also how their love story unfolds in the public eye.