Is love truly blind, or can family approval smooth the path to happily ever after? Frankie Grande, Ariana Grande's brother, has emphatically declared Ethan Slater a "wonderful guy," a sentiment that speaks volumes amidst the whirlwind of recent events.
The entertainment world has been abuzz with the unfolding narrative surrounding Ariana Grande's relationship with Ethan Slater, a tale that has captivated fans and fueled endless speculation. The couple, whose connection blossomed on the set of the highly anticipated "Wicked" movie, has become a focal point of both celebration and scrutiny. The initial spark, ignited during the filming of the musical adaptation, quickly evolved into a romance that would capture headlines worldwide. The backdrop to their burgeoning relationship was complex. Ethan Slater, known for his role in the Broadway production of "SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical," was married to Lilly Jay, with whom he has a child. Similarly, Ariana Grande was married to Dalton Gomez. The news of their respective divorces, followed by the confirmation of their relationship, set the stage for a media frenzy.
The situation was further complicated by the circumstances surrounding the start of their relationship. Accusations of infidelity swirled, painting a picture of a romance born from less-than-ideal beginnings. Despite the controversy, Ariana Grande's brother, Frankie Grande, has emerged as a staunch supporter of the relationship. His public endorsement of Ethan Slater, describing him as a "wonderful guy" who brings happiness to his sister, offers a compelling counter-narrative to the gossip and speculation. His Instagram feed has become a gallery of supportive photos, capturing moments of camaraderie and affection.
Beyond the headlines and rumors, a picture is emerging of a man who has found acceptance and even admiration within the Grande family. At the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards in California, in January, Ethan Slater and Frankie Grande posed for a friendly snap. This public display of unity provided tangible evidence of the strong bond between the two, showcasing a united front in the face of public opinion. This public display of unity provided tangible evidence of the strong bond between the two.
Here's a glimpse into the lives of the key figures:
| Ethan Slater | Frankie Grande | Ariana Grande | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Ethan Scott Slater | Frank James Michael Grande | Ariana Grande-Butera |
| Born | June 2, 1992 (age 32) | January 24, 1983 (age 41) | June 26, 1993 (age 30) |
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C., USA | New York City, New York, USA | Boca Raton, Florida, USA |
| Known For | Actor, Singer | Actor, Dancer, Singer, Television Personality | Singer, Actress, Songwriter |
| Notable Works | "SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical," "Wicked" (film) | "Big Brother," "RuPaul's Drag Race," "Rock of Ages" | "Victorious," "Sam & Cat," "Sweetener," "Thank U, Next" |
| Relationship Status | Dating Ariana Grande | Married to Hale Leon | Dating Ethan Slater |
| Family | Lilly Jay (ex-wife); 1 child | Joan Grande (mother), Edward Butera (father), Frankie Grande (brother) | Joan Grande (mother), Edward Butera (father), Frankie Grande (brother) |
| Website | IMDB | frankiegrande.com | arianagrande.com |
The public's fascination with the couple reached a fever pitch when they made a public appearance together at the 2025 SAG Awards. Their red-carpet debut ignited a flurry of online chatter, with fans drawing comparisons between Slater and Frankie Grande. The resemblance, particularly in their facial features and hairstyles, became a talking point, fueled by videos circulating on social media that highlighted the uncanny similarities.
The "Wicked" connection has proven to be more than just a professional collaboration, with the film serving as the meeting point. Following the release of the film, Slater traveled to Ariana's hometown in Florida to catch a screening with her brother, Frankie Grande, and her grandmother, Marjorie Grande, a.k.a. Nonna. The shared experience highlights a sense of kinship that goes beyond professional relationships.
Frankie Grande's support extends beyond mere words. His Instagram account has featured a steady stream of photos showcasing the bond between Slater and his sister, offering fans a glimpse into their private lives. These images, taken at various events and outings, underscore the family's acceptance and embrace of Slater.
In a world often dominated by negativity, the narrative surrounding Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater offers a refreshing perspective. It highlights the power of family, support, and the potential for new beginnings. While the initial circumstances of their relationship may have been controversial, the consistent support from Ariana's family, especially Frankie Grande, suggests that their love has blossomed into a genuine and enduring connection.
Ethan Slater's career trajectory is also worth noting. His breakthrough role in "SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical" garnered him critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination, solidifying his place in the theater world. His transition to film, with a starring role in "Wicked," marks a significant step in his career and introduced him to a wider audience. As his relationship with Ariana blossomed, his fame has increased exponentially.
Slater's ability to navigate the complexities of his personal life while maintaining a professional career is admirable. While addressing the "negative side" of his romance has been challenging, his willingness to confront these issues is a testament to his character. This willingness, coupled with the support of Ariana's family, could play a critical role in helping the couple to weather the storm of public opinion. His relationship with Ariana is a very sweet guy according to Frankie Grande, and the two can make it.
As they continue to navigate their relationship, Ariana and Ethan have managed to share some intimate moments with the world. They made an appearance at the 2025 SAG Awards. The two posed for photographers on the red carpet and their appearance sparked immediate reactions online when fans noticed Slater's striking resemblance to Ariana's brother, Frankie. These reactions highlighted the uncanny resemblance of the two.
Ariana and Ethan are side to side in a new photo and they are living their best life. The "one last time" singer and spongebob squarepants stage actor are not stopping. The two started dating in July 2023 after meeting on the set of "Wicked." Since then, their relationship has been a topic of discussion among fans.
Beyond the romantic narrative, this story delves into the dynamics of family and acceptance. Frankie Grande's role as a supporter underscores the importance of family in navigating challenging situations. His consistent endorsement of Ethan Slater reflects the values of loyalty and unconditional love that often characterize familial bonds. And his support may have helped to address the rumors and speculations about the relationship. It also serves as an example of how family can make a relationship work in the face of negativity.
The "Wicked" star, Ariana, and her co-star, Ethan, have not only found love but also acceptance from the family. They have managed to show the world that romance can work even if the path to love is not clean.
The future of Ariana and Ethan's relationship remains to be seen. However, the strong foundation of family support and their shared experiences in the entertainment industry could pave the way for a lasting relationship.
