Ariana Grande Rekindles Romance With Ex Ricky Alvarez After Ethan Slater Split

14 July 2026

Ariana Grande appears to have found love in a familiar place. Just months after ending her relationship with actor Ethan Slater, the pop superstar has reportedly reunited with former boyfriend Ricky Alvarez, nearly a decade after the pair first dated. According to multiple sources close to the singer, the relationship has been rekindled gradually, with both choosing to take things slowly as they reconnect while balancing their busy professional lives.

The romance marks a surprising but heartwarming new chapter for Grande and Alvarez, who originally dated from 2015 to 2016 after meeting while he worked as one of her backup dancers during the Honeymoon Tour. Although their romantic relationship ended years ago, the two reportedly remained on good terms and continued supporting each other from a distance. Friends say that long standing friendship has now become the foundation for their renewed relationship.

Sources say Grande and Alvarez began spending more time together shortly after her relationship with Ethan Slater quietly came to an end. While neither Grande nor Slater publicly commented in detail about their breakup, insiders have described the split as amicable, with both deciding to move forward separately while remaining respectful of one another. There have been no reports suggesting drama or conflict between the former couple.

Rumors surrounding Grande and Alvarez first gained momentum in late June when fans noticed the pair celebrating her birthday together in Austin, Texas. The speculation intensified over the Fourth of July holiday after they were reportedly seen spending time together in Florida with members of Grande's family. Their relaxed public outings fueled growing belief that the former couple had decided to give their relationship another chance.

Fans received another clue during Grande's recent performance in Brooklyn as part of her Eternal Sunshine Tour. While performing her hit song Thank U, Next, the singer subtly altered one of the lyrics that originally referenced Alvarez. The playful lyric change immediately caught the attention of concertgoers and quickly spread across social media, with many interpreting it as a confirmation that the pair were officially back together.

According to people close to the singer, one reason the relationship feels different this time is the maturity both have gained over the past decade. Alvarez reportedly remained close with Grande's family even after their breakup and has continued supporting her throughout the years. During her current tour, he has been seen attending performances and offering quiet encouragement behind the scenes, gestures that sources say meant a great deal to Grande.

Those familiar with the couple describe Alvarez as someone who makes Grande feel comfortable and understood. Rather than rushing into a serious commitment, they are choosing to enjoy spending time together without placing unnecessary pressure on the relationship. Friends say the pair appreciate having the opportunity to reconnect naturally after years of personal growth and separate life experiences.

The reunion comes during an especially busy period for Grande. She is currently traveling across North America on her Eternal Sunshine Tour while also preparing for the release of her upcoming album Petal. In addition, the singer continues expanding her acting career following the success of Wicked and several other high profile projects. Despite her demanding schedule, insiders say she has made time to prioritize relationships that bring her genuine happiness.

For fans who remember Grande and Alvarez's original romance, the reunion feels like a full circle moment. Their first relationship unfolded during one of the busiest periods of her early career, and although it ultimately ended, neither appeared to harbor resentment afterward. Over the years, Grande even referenced Alvarez positively in interviews and music, suggesting there had always been mutual respect between them.

Whether this second chance develops into a lasting relationship remains to be seen, but those close to the couple believe they are approaching things with patience and a stronger understanding of one another than they had years ago. For now, Ariana Grande appears to be entering a new chapter filled with music, career success and the possibility of rediscovering love with someone who has quietly remained part of her life all along.