Ariana Grande's Love Life: A Journey Through Her Notable Relationships

**Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** relationships have long been a subject of intense public fascination, almost as much as her chart-topping music. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the biggest pop sensations globally, Ariana Grande's personal life, particularly her romantic entanglements, has consistently garnered significant media attention and fan curiosity. This article delves into the various relationships that have shaped the pop powerhouse's journey, exploring the timelines, public perceptions, and the profound impact these connections have had on her life and artistry. Born June 26, 1993, Ariana Grande is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has captivated millions with her impressive vocal range, often likened to those of Mariah Carey and Christina Aguilera. Known for her iconic ponytail and a string of chart-topping hits like "Break Free," she has cemented her status as a global icon. Her notable albums, including *My Everything*, have sold millions worldwide, and her recent venture into film, particularly her role in *Wicked* where songs like "Defying Gravity" have returned to the charts, further showcases her versatility. While her professional achievements are undeniable, the public's interest often extends to her personal sphere, making a deep dive into her romantic history a compelling exploration for fans and followers alike.

Ariana Grande: A Brief Biography
Personal Data & Quick Facts
Early Relationships: Setting the Stage
Big Sean: A Budding Romance
Ricky Alvarez: The Dancer & The Pop Star
Mac Miller: A Profound Connection and Tragic Loss
Pete Davidson: The Whirlwind Engagement
Dalton Gomez: Marriage and Private Life
Ethan Slater: A New Chapter Amidst Controversy
Conclusion: Love, Loss, and Lessons Learned

Ariana Grande: A Brief Biography

Ariana Grande-Butera, born on June 26, 1993, in Boca Raton, Florida, began her career as a child star, gaining prominence on Nickelodeon in the late 2000s. Her role as Cat Valentine in *Victorious* (2010-2013) and its spin-off *Sam & Cat* (2013-2014) introduced her to a wide audience. However, it was her exceptional vocal talent that truly set her apart. With a mesmerizing, nimble soprano and a vocal register often likened to those of Mariah Carey and Christina Aguilera, Ariana quickly transitioned from television to music. Her debut album, *Yours Truly* (2013), showcased her impressive vocal range and earned critical acclaim. Subsequent albums like *My Everything* (2014), *Dangerous Woman* (2016), *Sweetener* (2018), *Thank U, Next* (2019), and *Positions* (2020) solidified her status as a global pop icon. Several Ariana Grande smashes, such as "Break Free" and "Problem," became instant hits, dominating charts worldwide. She is known not just for her music but also for her distinctive style, including her iconic ponytail, which has evolved significantly from her Nickelodeon days to her gravity-defying *Wicked* fashion moments as she turns 32 on June 26. Beyond music, Ariana has ventured into film, notably with her role as Glinda in the upcoming *Wicked* movie adaptation, where songs like "Defying Gravity" have already returned to the charts in the U.K. She has also used her platform to advocate for various causes, and despite staying silent on online remarks about her appearance, the *Positions* singer became emotional as she made a rare confession after being asked about beauty standards in the music and film industry, highlighting her vulnerability and authenticity. For those interested in her visual journey, all Ariana Grande's official music videos are available in chronological order, offering a glimpse into her artistic evolution. You can explore Ariana Grande's official site for the latest news, music, and updates from the pop sensation, and watch all Ariana Grande's music videos there.

Personal Data & Quick Facts

Early Relationships: Setting the Stage

Before she became a global superstar, Ariana Grande had a few relationships that, while less publicized than her later ones, still played a role in her early life and career. One of her earliest known relationships was with actor Graham Phillips, whom she dated from 2008 to 2011 after meeting on the set of the Broadway musical *13*. This relationship, occurring during her formative years, was largely private, reflecting a time before her immense fame made every aspect of her life a public spectacle. Another notable early **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** was Jai Brooks, a member of the YouTube comedy group The Janoskians. Their on-again, off-again relationship, which spanned from 2012 to 2014, was one of her first highly public romances, often playing out on social media. It was marked by public spats and reconciliations, giving fans an early glimpse into the challenges of maintaining a relationship under the intense scrutiny that would later define her life. These early experiences undoubtedly prepared her, to some extent, for the even greater public interest that would surround her future relationships.

Big Sean: A Budding Romance

In 2014, Ariana Grande began dating rapper Big Sean, marking one of her first high-profile relationships with another established artist. Their romance blossomed amidst their collaborations, most notably on Ariana's hit single "Problem" and Big Sean's track "Research." The pair often shared affectionate moments on social media and made several red-carpet appearances together, seemingly enjoying their time in the spotlight as a power couple. Their relationship, however, was relatively short-lived, lasting about eight months. They confirmed their split in April 2015, citing conflicting tour schedules as the primary reason. While the breakup appeared amicable, with both parties expressing mutual respect, it was a significant moment in Ariana's public romantic history, setting a precedent for the intense scrutiny her future relationships would face. Big Sean would later be referenced in her iconic song "Thank U, Next," indicating the lasting, albeit positive, impact he had on her journey.

Ricky Alvarez: The Dancer & The Pop Star

Following her split from Big Sean, Ariana Grande entered into a relationship with her backup dancer, Ricky Alvarez, in 2015. This romance gained significant media attention, particularly after the infamous "donut-licking" incident, where a video surfaced of Ariana and Ricky playfully licking donuts on a display case in a shop. While the incident led to public apologies from Ariana, it also put a spotlight on her relationship with Alvarez. Their relationship was more low-key compared to her previous and subsequent high-profile romances. Alvarez often appeared in her social media posts, and they were frequently seen together during her *Dangerous Woman* era. The relationship lasted for about a year, ending in mid-2016. Sources close to the couple cited that the split was amicable, with both parties deciding to remain friends. Like Big Sean, Ricky Alvarez was also mentioned in "Thank U, Next," with the line "Even almost got married / And for Pete I'm so thankful / Wish I could say, 'Thank you' to Malcolm / 'Cause he was an angel / One taught me love / One taught me patience / One taught me pain / Now I'm so amazing / I've loved and I've lost / But that's not what I see / So look what I got / Look what you taught me / And for that, I say / Thank u, next." The inclusion of Alvarez in this reflective song indicated that despite its quiet nature, their time together held personal significance for Ariana.

Mac Miller: A Profound Connection and Tragic Loss

One of the most significant and deeply impactful relationships in Ariana Grande's life was with rapper Mac Miller (Malcolm McCormick). Their bond transcended a typical celebrity romance, becoming a profound connection that deeply influenced both artists' lives and work. Their story is a crucial chapter in understanding the journey of **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** relationships.

The Beginnings of Their Love

Ariana and Mac first met around 2012, collaborating on her debut single "The Way" from her album *Yours Truly*. At the time, they maintained that they were just friends, despite clear chemistry. Their friendship evolved into a romantic relationship in 2016, a few months after her split from Ricky Alvarez. They made their relationship public through social media posts and interviews, openly expressing their affection and support for one another. Fans quickly embraced them as a beloved couple, often referring to them as "Maciana." Their relationship was characterized by genuine affection, shared creative endeavors, and mutual support through the highs and lows of their demanding careers. Mac Miller was a constant presence in Ariana's life, often accompanying her on tour and appearing in her social media. Their love was palpable, and they frequently spoke about their deep bond and the comfort they found in each other's company.

A Shared Journey Through Fame

Throughout their two-year relationship, Ariana and Mac collaborated on several more tracks, including "My Favorite Part" from Mac's album *The Divine Feminine*, which was largely inspired by his love for Ariana. Their relationship was not without its challenges, particularly concerning Mac's struggles with substance abuse, which Ariana openly supported him through. She often spoke about her desire for his well-being and her role in encouraging his sobriety. Their public appearances together, from red carpet events to intimate social media moments, painted a picture of a couple deeply in love and navigating the complexities of fame together. They were each other's biggest cheerleaders, celebrating successes and offering solace during difficult times. The depth of their connection resonated with fans, making their relationship feel particularly authentic and relatable despite their celebrity status.

The Aftermath and Enduring Legacy

In May 2018, Ariana and Mac announced their split, citing their demanding schedules and Mac's ongoing personal struggles as reasons for their separation. Ariana released a statement emphasizing her enduring love and respect for him, calling him "one of my best friends in the whole world and favorite people on the planet." She continued to express her support for his sobriety and well-being. Tragically, just a few months later, in September 2018, Mac Miller passed away from an accidental overdose. His death sent shockwaves through the music industry and deeply affected Ariana. She publicly mourned his loss, expressing her profound grief and paying tribute to his life and talent. The song "Thank U, Next" heavily features a poignant reference to him, acknowledging him as an "angel" and crediting him with teaching her "pain," a testament to the deep impact of his loss. The legacy of Mac Miller as an **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** is one of profound love, shared artistry, and immense grief. Their relationship remains a tender and significant part of her public narrative, reminding fans of the human experience behind the celebrity facade. Her continued tributes to him, both subtle and overt, underscore the lasting impression he left on her heart and her art.

Pete Davidson: The Whirlwind Engagement

Following her breakup with Mac Miller, Ariana Grande entered into a highly publicized and whirlwind romance with comedian Pete Davidson in May 2018. This relationship, though brief, captivated the media and fans alike, becoming one of the most talked-about celebrity pairings of the year.

The Whirlwind Romance

The speed at which their relationship developed was astonishing. Within weeks of going public, Ariana and Pete were inseparable, frequently appearing on each other's social media and making headlines with their affectionate displays. Their romance was characterized by spontaneity, matching tattoos, and public declarations of love. Fans were taken aback by the rapid progression, especially given the recent end of Ariana's long-term relationship with Mac Miller. The couple's seemingly carefree and intense connection resonated with some, while others expressed concern about the pace. Ariana herself seemed to embrace the excitement, often posting playful and loving content featuring Pete. This period was marked by a visible shift in her public persona, appearing more openly joyful and less guarded.

Engagement and Public Scrutiny

Just a few weeks into their romance, in June 2018, Ariana Grande and Pete Davidson announced their engagement. The news sent the internet into a frenzy, with many fans and media outlets expressing surprise at the rapid decision. Pete confirmed the engagement during an appearance on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, and Ariana also publicly acknowledged it. The engagement brought an even higher level of public scrutiny to their relationship. Every move they made, every social media post, and every interview quote was dissected. Ariana even released a song titled "Pete Davidson" on her *Sweetener* album, further cementing their highly public relationship in her discography. While their love seemed genuine, the intense spotlight and the sheer speed of their commitment raised questions about the sustainability of their whirlwind romance.

The Breakup and Its Impact

The dream-like romance came to an abrupt end in October 2018, just four months after their engagement. The news of their split, confirmed by multiple sources, shocked many who had followed their journey. The breakup occurred shortly after the tragic passing of Mac Miller, which deeply affected Ariana. While the exact reasons for the split were not fully disclosed, it was widely speculated that the intensity of their relationship, coupled with the immense grief Ariana was experiencing, contributed to its demise. The breakup had a significant impact on both Ariana and Pete. Ariana channeled her emotions into her music, releasing the critically acclaimed and highly successful album *Thank U, Next*. The title track, which became an anthem of self-love and moving on, famously name-dropped Pete Davidson (along with other **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** figures), stating, "Even almost got married, and for Pete I'm so thankful." This song allowed her to process her experiences publicly and provided a powerful narrative of resilience and growth. The period following the breakup was a time of introspection and healing for Ariana, demonstrating her ability to transform personal pain into universal art.

Dalton Gomez: Marriage and Private Life After the highly public and often tumultuous relationships that defined much of her late 2010s, Ariana Grande entered a new phase of her romantic life with Dalton Gomez, a luxury real estate agent. Their relationship marked a deliberate shift towards more privacy and normalcy, a stark contrast to her previous high-profile romances. Ariana and Dalton reportedly began dating in early 2020, just before the global pandemic led to widespread lockdowns. This timing allowed their relationship to develop away from the usual glare of the paparazzi and media, fostering a more private and intimate connection. They were first spotted together in February 2020, and their relationship was confirmed when Dalton appeared in the music video for "Stuck with U," her collaboration with Justin Bieber, in May 2020. Their romance progressed quietly, with Ariana sharing only glimpses of their life together on social media. This intentional privacy was a conscious choice, reflecting a desire to protect their bond from the intense scrutiny that had plagued her past relationships. In December 2020, Ariana announced their engagement, sharing photos of her unique pearl and diamond engagement ring. In May 2021, Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez surprised fans by announcing they had secretly tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at her home in Montecito, California. The wedding was small, with fewer than 20 guests, emphasizing their desire for a private celebration. This decision further underscored Ariana's commitment to keeping her personal life, especially her marriage, out of the constant public eye. For a period, their marriage seemed to represent a stable and happy chapter for Ariana. She occasionally shared sweet, personal moments, but largely maintained a boundary around her marital life. However, by mid-2023, rumors of trouble in paradise began to surface. In July 2023, it was confirmed that Ariana and Dalton had separated earlier in the year and were heading towards divorce. The news was met with sadness by fans who had hoped for her lasting happiness. The divorce was finalized in October 2023, with the couple citing "irreconcilable differences." This marked the end of her first marriage, a significant turning point in her journey through love.

Ethan Slater: A New Chapter Amidst Controversy

Following her separation from Dalton Gomez, Ariana Grande's romantic life once again became a subject of intense public discussion with news of her relationship with Ethan Slater, her co-star from the upcoming *Wicked* movie adaptation. This new chapter, however, was immediately shrouded in controversy. Reports of Ariana and Ethan's relationship emerged in July 2023, shortly after news of her split from Dalton Gomez became public. The controversy stemmed from the fact that Ethan Slater was also married at the time, and had recently become a father. His wife, Lilly Jay, publicly expressed her heartbreak and frustration, leading to significant backlash and public scrutiny directed at both Ariana and Ethan. The timeline and circumstances surrounding the beginning of their relationship have been a subject of much speculation and debate in the media. While sources close to Ariana and Ethan reportedly stated that both had separated from their respective spouses before their romance began, the public perception was largely critical, given the proximity of their new relationship to their previous marriages. This period has seen Ariana maintain a relatively low profile on social media regarding her personal life, likely in response to the intense public reaction. The relationship with Ethan Slater represents a complex and challenging new phase for Ariana, as she navigates a new romance under the shadow of public judgment and controversy, a stark reminder of the constant scrutiny that comes with being a global superstar. The media and public remain keenly interested in how this relationship will unfold, adding another layer to the intricate narrative of **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** relationships and her ongoing journey through love and life.

Conclusion: Love, Loss, and Lessons Learned

Ariana Grande's journey through her relationships, from her early days to her most recent involvements, offers a compelling look into the complexities of love, loss, and growth under the relentless glare of the public eye. Each **Ariana Grande ex boyfriend** relationship has undeniably played a role in shaping her as an individual and an artist, influencing her music, her public persona, and her personal evolution. From the profound connection with Mac Miller and the subsequent heartbreak that fueled her most acclaimed album, *Thank U, Next*, to the whirlwind romance with Pete Davidson and the quieter, more private marriage to Dalton Gomez, Ariana's experiences reflect a universal search for connection amidst extraordinary circumstances. Despite the intense scrutiny and occasional controversies, Ariana has consistently channeled her experiences into her art, offering fans a raw and honest glimpse into her emotional landscape. Her willingness to be vulnerable, even when discussing sensitive topics like beauty standards in the industry, resonates deeply with her audience. As she continues to evolve as an artist and a person, her past relationships remain a significant part of her story, highlighting resilience, self-discovery, and the enduring power of love and its lessons. What are your thoughts on Ariana Grande's journey through her relationships? Which of her songs do you feel best captures her experiences with love and heartbreak? Share your insights in the comments below! If you're interested in playlists by other famous singers or want to explore more about pop culture icons, be sure to check out my YouTube channel and other articles on this site.

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