Ariana Grande Praises Boyfriend Ethan Slater in Rare Instagram Comment
Ariana Grande is not holding back when it comes to showing love for her boyfriend, Ethan Slater. In a rare Instagram comment, the pop sensation showered praise on her Wicked co-star and partner after he posted a series of stunning photos on Tuesday.
Ethan Slater Channels Timeless Elegance
Slater, 32, shared a striking black-and-white photoshoot for Schön! Magazine on Instagram, where he posed in a long coat and scarf, captured by renowned fashion photographer Tyler Patrick Kenny.
Among the flood of comments, Grande’s stood out. She gushed, calling Slater the “modern-day Buster Keaton,” a nod to the legendary silent film actor known for his comedic genius and daring stunts.
In another brief but heartfelt comment, Grande simply added, “!!! ♡,” letting her emotions speak louder than words.
A Love Story That Blossomed on Set
The pair’s romance sparked on the set of Wicked, where they play pivotal roles in the upcoming adaptation of the beloved musical. Both were navigating the fallout of previous marriages when they found each other.
Grande, 31, announced her split from ex-husband Dalton Gomez in July 2023, while Slater filed for divorce from his high school sweetheart Lilly Jay—with whom he shares a 2-year-old son, Ezra—later that same month.
Their budding relationship stirred controversy, with Jay accusing Grande of not being “a girl’s girl.” However, insiders quickly clarified that the pair had done nothing wrong, as both had been separated from their respective partners for months before going public.
Ethan Slater Opens Up About Private Life Scrutiny
In an October 2023 interview with GQ, Slater reflected on the challenges of having his private life under the public microscope.
“There’s something incredibly hard about having your personal life commented on and speculated about by people who don’t know the truth,” the Broadway star shared. “There are so many profound life changes happening in private, and it’s tough to see people misunderstand and misrepresent those you love.”
Despite the public attention, Slater remained focused on his craft, citing comedic legends like Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, and Danny Kaye as major inspirations for his physical comedy skills, honed during his time in The SpongeBob SquarePants Musical.
“I’ve always admired those early film comedians,” he said, adding that projects like SpongeBob allowed him to channel that energy. “I’m constantly learning—I watch films, read books, and immerse myself in everything I can. It’s my passion.”
Ariana Grande Defends Their Relationship
Grande has also been vocal in defending their relationship. Speaking to Vanity Fair in September 2023, she dismissed rumors of infidelity and addressed the hurtful narratives surrounding their love.
“The most disappointing thing is seeing so many people believe the worst version of [our relationship],” she said.
Grande was particularly passionate about countering tabloid portrayals of Slater, calling him “one of the most genuine people” she’s ever known.
“No one on this earth has a kinder heart,” Grande declared. “And that’s something no tabloid can rewrite in real life.”
A Rare Look Into Their Bond
While the couple keeps their romance mostly private, moments like Grande’s Instagram comment offer a glimpse into their deep admiration for one another. As Slater’s career continues to soar and Grande embraces new chapters in her life, the duo seems to have found a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared creative passion.
The story of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater is one of resilience, artistry, and a love that shines brighter than the tabloids’ glare.
