At the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards, a rare atmosphere of vulnerability and connection unfolded, centering on the burgeoning relationship between Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande. The event was initially a glamorous affair filled with Hollywood’s brightest stars, yet it was the low-key, intimate moments shared between the co-stars of the upcoming film “Wicked” that captured the attention of onlookers and viewers alike. Footage circulating on social media showcased the pair navigating the crowded venue together, a testament to the protective nature of Slater as he held on to Grande’s hand while offering words of encouragement.
Such tender interactions resonate deeper than mere romantic gestures; they highlight how relationships in the limelight can foster insecurities amidst the chaos. Lip reader Nicola Hickling decoded a moment where Slater urged Grande to stay close due to the crowd’s intensity, reflecting a sense of duty alongside endearment. This protective dynamic raises questions about how public scrutiny and interference influence personal connections among celebrities.
Slater and Grande are no strangers to the rumor mill, having faced significant backlash since they went public with their relationship in 2023. Initially caught in the crossfire of speculation and gossip, they became a focal point for tabloids and social media critics, many of whom thrived on juicier narratives. Their relationship blossomed while both were still married to other people, though both actors firmly expressed that their romantic ties had no overlap with their former marriages.
Despite the swirling skepticism, the two have frequently shared glimpses of their evolving bond on social media and during public appearances. The SAG Awards served as another opportunity to witness their connection, with the pair often seen stealing glances at one another and indulging in quiet conversations. This shared intimacy juxtaposed against their decision to maintain a level of decorum—walking the red carpet separately—suggests a harmony between their personal lives and professional responsibilities.
The complexities of their relationship are further underscored by their pasts; Grande’s split from Dalton Gomez in mid-2023 and Slater’s divorce from Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a young child, have been widely publicized. Amidst the heartbreak and upheaval of their previous marriages, their solidarity offers a narrative of healing and resilience. Grande, reflecting on the public’s quickness to judge, managed to articulate her disappointment in people’s tendency to latch onto negative speculation rather than focusing on the truth. Her assertion in a Vanity Fair interview from November 2024 about the media’s portrayal of her personal life emphasizes the struggle celebrities face concerning public perception.
Yet, as they transition from scandal to stability, the narrative surrounding their love story seems to be shifting. The couple has been seen celebrating milestones together, such as Slater’s heartfelt tribute to Grande following her first Oscar nomination, reinforcing a sense of mutual support that runs deeper than the surface allure of fame.
As Slater and Grande continue their promotional efforts for “Wicked,” their relationship will likely face even more scrutiny. However, they appear committed to building a supportive space for one another, hinting at a shared goal of navigating their careers while nurturing their bond. Aside from the spark of romance, there’s an undercurrent of genuine friendship that seems to anchor their relationship—a quality that is often overshadowed by larger narratives surrounding celebrity life.
The couple remains focused amidst the chaos, continually showcasing their love and support for one another in the public sphere. Whether it’s through tender glances captured on camera or heartfelt social media posts, Slater and Grande exemplify the idea that love can flourish even in the face of adversity—a narrative as enchanting as the story of “Wicked” itself. As they continue to step forward together, the duo becomes not just stars in their own right but also relatable figures grappling with the complexities of love in a highly publicized world.