Zoey Grossman for ALLURE
Ariana Grande found herself at the center of online controversy after rumors swirled about her relationship with actor Ethan Slater. Many users rushed to criticize the singer, wrongly accusing her of breaking up Slater’s marriage. However, Ariana’s loyal fans have since launched a campaign to set the record straight.
Following her engagement to Tony Award winner Ethan Slater, whom she met while co-starring in “Wicked,” false allegations emerged claiming Ariana was responsible for the end of Slater’s previous relationship. While details of Slater’s divorce are private, some online chose to blame the pop star despite little evidence.
As unfounded criticism grew, using harmful terms like “homewrecker,” Grande’s supporters known as “Arianators” mobilized to defend her reputation. Highlighting that even news sources had to retract unreliable reports, fans urged those who judged Ariana to reconsider in light of no facts. One stated that people shouldn’t assume the worst based on internet rumors alone without the full story.
In her new single “yes, and?,” some felt Ariana addressed the backlash through lyrics discouraging gossip about her personal life. As the hashtag #ApologizeToAriana gained traction, more called out the unfair treatment and false accusations the singer faced online. They maintained Ariana’s innocence until proven otherwise, criticizing those who spread false information that attack her character.
For her part, Ariana said the unwarranted criticism only deepened her disconnect from those quick to make assumptions without truly knowing her truth. But buoyed by loyal supporters defending her name, it seems the narrative may finally be shifting back towards fairness and the facts rather than fiction.
