Actor Ethan Slater attending a public event
Ethan Slater reportedly learned of his ex’s new relationship through shared social circles.
Word Travels Fast in Shared Circles
Ariana Grande has officially turned the page following her recent split from actor Ethan Slater. The pop star is rekindling a romance with her former boyfriend, Ricky Alvarez, nearly a decade after they first dated.
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However, the news of this reunion did not come directly from Grande. Instead, insiders report that Slater found out about the renewed relationship through mutual friends.
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According to the Daily Mail, there was no direct heads-up given to the Wicked actor. “Ariana hasn’t told Ethan specifically, but mutual friends have told him that she is now dating Ricky again,” a source explained.
Keeping the Peace Post-Split
Despite the indirect revelation, sources stress there is no underlying drama. Grande and Slater ended their nearly three-year relationship earlier in 2026 and have remained on amicable terms.
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Because the two share a tight-knit social circle, Grande reportedly felt it was important to stay loosely in contact with her ex. The breakup was described as mutual and respectful, though Slater allegedly hoped they could make it work.
“From what friends say, Ethan would have preferred the relationship continue, but Ariana has always followed her own instincts,” an insider noted. “When she’s ready to move on, she does.”
Rebuilding Trust with Alvarez
Grande and Alvarez first dated from 2015 to 2016 after crossing paths during her Honeymoon Tour, where he worked as a backup dancer. The two never completely lost touch, frequently bumping into each other thanks to shared friends.
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After Grande’s relationship with Slater wound down, she and Alvarez began spending time together in group settings. These casual hangouts naturally progressed into one-on-one outings.
Sources are firm that there was zero overlap between Grande’s time with Slater and her return to Alvarez. The new couple is intentionally taking things slowly, prioritizing trust and mutual comfort over a rushed commitment.
Familiarity and Public Sightings
“What ultimately drew her back was the comfort and familiarity they share,” a third source told the Daily Mail. “She doesn’t feel like she has to prove herself, and there’s a level of trust that comes with knowing each other so well.”
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Grande reportedly values Alvarez’s dependability and sense of humor. Her demanding professional schedule has also motivated the pair to keep their romance relatively low-key for the time being.
Still, fans and media alike began piecing the puzzle together long before the official confirmation. The pair was spotted vacationing in Texas, enjoying the Fourth of July in Florida, and recently taking a cozy stroll through Central Park in New York City.
Eagle-eyed fans attending her Eternal Sunshine Tour also noticed lyrical tweaks to her hit single “Thank U, Next.” During live performances, Grande has been referencing Alvarez with noticeable affection, fueling the initial online speculation.
Focusing on the Music
As the singer settles into this familiar but fresh chapter with Alvarez, her professional life remains operating at full speed. Grande is currently navigating her global Eternal Sunshine Tour while putting the finishing touches on her highly anticipated upcoming album, Petal.
Source: HOLA!
