Fri Nov 22 02:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s “Wicked” Romance: A Timeline of Controversy and Celebration

**NEW YORK** — The highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked” has been overshadowed by the whirlwind romance between its stars, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater. Their relationship, which went public last July while both were still married, has sparked considerable controversy and continues to make headlines as the film’s premiere approaches.

Grande, 31, separated from husband Dalton Gomez in July 2023 after two years of marriage, while Slater, 32, divorced his wife Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a two-year-old son, the same month. Jay publicly criticized Grande, calling her actions “collateral damage” and expressing shock at the relationship’s sudden development. Sources claim that Jay discovered flirtatious texts between Grande and Slater while they were both still married, and that Grande even met the couple’s baby on several occasions.

Grande and Slater met on the “Wicked” set in December 2022. Slater’s demanding filming schedule in England, away from his family, may have contributed to the strain on his marriage, according to sources close to him.

The couple’s relationship became public in July 2023, leading to online accusations of Grande being a “homewrecker.” Grande addressed the criticism in a Vanity Fair interview, expressing disappointment at the negative reaction.

Despite the controversy, Grande and Slater have remained publicly affectionate, showcasing their relationship on the red carpet at multiple “Wicked” premieres. Grande has praised Slater’s performance and personality, while he has been seen supporting her at various events.

Sources close to Grande maintain that she is monogamous and dedicated to relationships, pointing to her past relationships and her song “Thank U, Next,” which reflected on past relationships and the lessons learned. A close friend also highlighted her deep grief following the death of Mac Miller, emphasizing her commitment to lasting, loving relationships.

While the timeline of their relationship remains a source of public discussion, the couple appears determined to move forward, their romance continuing to capture attention even as their highly anticipated film nears its November 22nd release date. The source close to Slater emphasized that, regardless of past events, the couple’s happiness is what matters most.

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