Ariana Grande Says Decision to Step Away from Spotlight Was “Not Reactive or Impulsive”

Ariana Grande recently revealed that her decision to withdraw from the spotlight was not an impulsive or reactive choice. At her concert in Chicago's United Center, the 33-year-old singer and actress emphasized that the move was carefully planned and executed from a place of thoughtfulness and empowerment. Grande clarified that the notion of her fans worrying that negativity was ruining her life was incorrect, stating that the situation was far from that.

She stressed that multiple truths could coexist simultaneously, acknowledging the need for setting boundaries and allowing oneself the occasional break, while also highlighting the significance of the love and support shared among her fans. Additionally, the representative for Grande announced that the talented musician would be stepping back from public visibility and taking a well-deserved break from active work and appearances, due to the incessant public scrutiny she has faced.

This decision came after her recent end of a high-profile relationship with Wicked co-star Ethan Slater and lingering concerns about her physical appearance among her fanbase. Consequently, Grande has withdrawn from her role in Stephen Sondheim's West End revival of Sunday in the Park with George, where she was set to appear alongside her co-star Jonathan Bailey. The singer recently released her eighth studio album, petal.