Ariana Grande is dating her Wicked co-star, Ethan Slater, TMZ has reported.
The pair, who are currently filming the movie adaptation of the popular Broadway musical, reportedly their romance after meeting on set. Rumors began to swirl in March when a picture of the two at an Oscar celebration for Michelle Yeoh in London surfaced online.
The news of Grande's alleged romance with Slater comes after her split from husband Dalton Gomez earlier this year. Although divorce documents are yet to be filed, TMZ suggests that the process is in motion. Despite their separation, Grande and Gomez maintain an amicable relationship, with both parties exploring new romantic connections.
Slater is no stranger to the spotlight. Best known for his role as Boq in Wicked, Slater is also celebrated for his performance as SpongeBob Squarepants in the Broadway musical of the same name, which even garnered him a Tony Award nomination. His talents extend beyond acting, as he is also a singer, composer, and writer.
He was previously married to singer Lilly Jay since 2018, and they welcomed a son in 2020. However, sources clarify that Slater's relationship with Grande didn't start until after he and Jay had separated.
Amid the news of her separation from Gomez, a source close to the 30-year-old singer and actress shed some light on the circumstances to People. As it turns out, Grande's filming commitments for the Wicked adaptation in the UK did little to strengthen their bond, contrary to the old saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder."
"Ariana cherished her time in Los Angeles during the past couple of years. She aspired to build a life there with Dalton," the insider shared with the outlet in an exclusive report on Monday.
When it came to Gomez, who is a luxury real estate agent, his professional focus was squarely on his career in Los Angeles, the source outlined. "Dalton's career in luxury real estate is highly demanding, and it chains him to Los Angeles. When Ariana commenced her Wicked filming in England, they were faced with the daunting challenge of a long-distance marriage."
Unfortunately, their relationship didn't survive these challenges. However, the source assured, "Ariana has nothing but praise for Dalton. Throughout their marriage, he was her staunchest supporter."