It’s been quite a year for Ariana Grande, but the pop star took to Instagram to reflect on the challenges and triumphs that have defined this transformative chapter of her life. Grande didn’t directly address the rumors and whispers surrounding her relationship with Wicked costar Ethan Slater, but her emotional message seems to allude to the scrutiny and assumptions that have surrounded her personal life.
“I have never felt more pride or joy or love while simultaneously feeling so deeply misunderstood by people who don’t know me, who piece whispers together and make what they want out of me and their assumptions of my life,” Grande wrote. It’s clear that this past year has been a rollercoaster for the singer, but she emphasized the importance of feeling supported and understood by those closest to her.
The criticism of Grande and Slater’s relationship stemmed from reports that Slater was still married to his ex-wife Lilly Jay when he and Grande got together. Despite conflicting sources, it’s evident that the situation has taken an emotional toll on Grande. This Instagram Story is the closest we’ve seen Grande come to addressing the backlash against her relationship with Slater.
As the year comes to a close, Grande wrapped up her message with a heartwarming sentiment for her fans: “I am wrapping you all in a cocoon of love and wishing you a very happy, healthy new year.”
