The recent appearance of Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards has ignited conversations not only about their burgeoning relationship but also about the backdrop of tumult that surrounds it. As co-stars in the much-anticipated adaptation of “Wicked,” their off-screen romance has captivated the hearts of many while simultaneously drawing the scrutiny of a society quick to judge.
Caught on camera during a break in the awards ceremony, Slater, showcasing protective instincts, was seen holding Grande’s hand firmly while whispering reassuring words to her. This moment, relayed by lip reader Nicola Hickling to the Daily Mail, offers an intimate view into their relationship dynamic. “Stay near. This crowd next to me, they are pushing me,” Slater is reported to have said, revealing how he prioritizes her comfort amidst the swirl of Hollywood glamour. Their connection appears genuine, with Grande gazing intently at Slater, nodding her head before affectionately patting his hand, indicating a bond fostered in mutual support.
However, what stands out more starkly than their public displays of affection is their decision to maintain a semblance of privacy and discretion amidst an ocean of tabloid speculation. Their choice to walk the red carpet separately hints at a conscious effort to carve out a boundary against invasive scrutiny, a reminder that their relationship, while publicly celebrated, is rooted in personal challenges.
The trajectory of Slater and Grande’s relationship has been rife with controversy, primarily due to the circumstances surrounding its inception. When romance rumors first began circulating, both Slater and Grande were entangled in previous marriages. Grande, who processed her separation from Dalton Gomez in July 2023, and Slater, amid his divorce from Lilly Jay, have faced relentless public skepticism about the timeline of their relationship. Grande herself addressed these allegations, expressing disappointment in the general public for subscribing to negative narratives. “The most disappointing part was to see so many people believe the worst version of it,” she articulated in a Vanity Fair interview in late 2024.
This backdrop of infidelity speculation not only complicates their newfound love but also complicates the narrative of their professional collaboration as they promote “Wicked.” They’re not just actors portraying a connection but a real-life couple attempting to foster a relationship amid relentless public scrutiny.
Throughout the evening at the SAG Awards, the pair was seen sharing the occasional laugh and engaged in light-hearted conversations, all representative of their evolving relationship. Wearing a stunning pale pink Loewe gown adorned with floral appliqués, Grande was the essence of grace, while Slater appeared equally captivated by her presence. Their sweet moments, such as hand-holding and whispers shared between them, showcased a bond that transcends the assumptions and gossip swirling around them.
Each public appearance serves as both a celebration of their achievements in the world of film and theater and a display of vulnerability as they navigate the sensitive waters of their personal lives. Recently, Slater celebrated Grande’s Oscar nomination with a heartfelt photo, giving fans glimpses into their quieter moments away from the public eye.
As Slater and Grande step deeper into the limelight with their promising careers and complex personal lives, their journey evokes a broader commentary on love, acceptance, and the role of public perception in shaping narratives. While the SAG Awards may not have yielded accolades, the couple’s resilience amidst scrutiny certainly deserves recognition. Their story continues to unfold, reminding us that in the theater of life, love and controversy often intertwine, producing a narrative worth following. Whether or not they stand together at the end of the tumult remains to be seen, but for now, they seem committed to navigating the world hand in hand.
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