Ethan Slater Makes First Public Appearance Since Breakup with Ariana Grande at Free Shakespeare in the Park
Ethan Slater, the 34-year-old actor, was recently spotted at Free Shakespeare in the Park's production of Romeo & Juliet in New York City's Central Park. This appearance marks his first public outing since news of his breakup with Ariana Grande surfaced. The couple, who had been dating for nearly three years, decided to part ways amicably after careful consideration. Despite the separation, they remain supportive friends of each other.
Slater, known for his role in Wicked, was seen at the press night of the production, donning a simple white T-shirt, black pants, and white sneakers. Meanwhile, Grande embarked on her Eternal Sunshine Tour in Oakland, California, following the breakup. The singer kicked off the tour at the Oakland Arena and is scheduled to perform in Los Angeles next.
The former couple first met on the set of Wicked in 2022, where Grande portrayed Glinda the Good Witch and Slater played Boq. Their relationship faced challenges after the press tour for Wicked: For Good, leading to their decision to part ways. Despite their differences, they both care for each other and had hoped for a different outcome.
Slater was previously married to Lilly Jay, a clinical psychologist, with whom he shares a son named Ezra. Their marriage ended in 2024, the same year Grande's marriage to Dalton Gomez also came to an end. Both Slater and Grande finalized their divorces in the following year. Jay, in a 2024 essay, expressed her feelings about the divorce and the challenges she faced during the press tour for Wicked.
In conclusion, Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande have decided to end their relationship after nearly three years of dating. Despite the breakup, they remain supportive friends and are navigating their separate paths. Slater's recent public appearance at the theater signals his resilience and commitment to moving forward.