Ethan Slater reportedly ‘tried very hard to prove himself to Ariana Grande’

Ariana Grande And Ethan Slater have reportedly reconciled after a brief breakup, with close sources saying the actor worked hard to save their relationship.

While publicly projecting calm and closeness, sources describe the reunion as fragile and allegedly questioned by the pop star’s friends.

Meanwhile, Ariana Grande faced further backlash online after old photos of Ethan Slater’s ex-wife spending Christmas with their son resurfaced, reigniting criticism.

After weeks of low-key speculation and a notable absence from each other’s public orbit, Grande and Slater resurfaced together over the holidays, putting breakup rumors to rest.

However, according to insiders who spoke to Rob Shuter’s #Shutter shutterSlater’s recent warm and celebratory moments on social media weren’t accidental, as they were meant to signal a reconciliation after a short but real rift between the couple.

However, the reunion did not go unnoticed or uncontested. “Ethan is working overtime to save this relationship,” a source said. “He is attentive, available and tries very hard to prove himself.”

What has caused murmurs among those who observe us closely is the contrast in behavior. Friends reportedly pointed out that this level of urgency was not evident when Slater’s marriage to Lilly Jay, who was pregnant at the time, collapsed as his relationship with Grande took shape.

“That’s what people can’t get over,” said a close source. “He fought for Ariana, but not at all for his family.”

Those close to the couple say the brief separation hit Slater harder than the “Wicked” actress.

As she reportedly turned her attention to work and those around her, Slater became increasingly anxious about losing the relationship completely.

“He knows what it’s like,” a source noted. “And he’s afraid of being disposable.”

However, skepticism remains strong among Grande’s friends, many of whom question the longevity of the reconciliation.

“This pattern is familiar,” said one insider. “High intensity, emotional withdrawal, reconciliation, then burnout. It’s happened before.”

Outwardly, the couple presents a serene and settled image, vacation warmth, subtle unity and quiet comfort.

But behind closed doors, sources say Slater and Grande’s relationship is delicate, sustained by conscious effort rather than natural flow.

“They are together,” we conclude. “But no one bets forever.”

At the same time, the “Wicked” co-stars had noticeably downplayed their romance while promoting the upcoming sequel, which only fueled rumors that their nearly two-year relationship had quietly ended.

That speculation faded when Slater posted a series of cozy snaps of Grande to his Instagram Stories. Smiling sweetly at the camera, the singer then reposted the image herself.

Last month, a source told People Magazine that the couple is still together and determined to make their relationship work, even if their careers take them in different directions.

Grande is gearing up for her 2026 “Eternal Sunshine” tour and recently wrapped filming “Focker In-Law” alongside Ben Stiller, while Slater is set to take the stage in the upcoming Off-Broadway production “Marcel on the Train.”

“They both have a lot going on, but their relationship is the real deal,” the source shared. “They are incredibly supportive of each other’s careers and are excited for everyone to see their new film.”

Any lingering speculation was put to rest when Slater appeared in Elizabeth Gillies’ Instagram photo celebrating Grande’s final appearance on “Saturday Night Live.”

Grande herself has been openly affectionate when speaking about Slater. In a November 2024 interview with Entertainment tonightshe highly praised him, calling him “always adorable” and highlighting both his performance in the film and his off-screen character.

“He’s such an amazing person. I’m so happy that people are getting to know him. My heart is very happy,” she said.