Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater appear to be quietly planning a future that goes far beyond red carpets and press tours. As speculation swirls online about the state of their relationship following the Wicked media blitz, sources say the couple is more united than ever—and already thinking several steps ahead.
Insiders close to the pair claim the 32-year-old pop superstar and her 33-year-old Broadway actor boyfriend are looking toward 2026 as a turning point, with marriage and even starting a family firmly on the table. Despite persistent rumors fueled by public scrutiny, those in their inner circle insist the relationship is stable and moving forward.
According to one source, Grande has been open about wanting to take the next step and is no longer shy about hinting that an engagement should happen sooner rather than later. Far from cooling off, she’s reportedly feeling confident about building a long-term future with Slater.
Grande’s previous marriage to real estate agent Dalton Gomez ended in divorce, but sources say it hasn’t dampened her belief in marriage. Friends describe Slater as attentive and emotionally present—qualities Grande is said to value deeply after her past experiences. Many around them believe it’s only a matter of time before an engagement becomes official.
The couple recently made a rare public appearance together at the London premiere of Wicked: For Good, where Grande subtly reaffirmed their bond by sharing an intimate photo on Instagram with her massive following. The post was seen by fans as a quiet but deliberate message that their relationship remains intact.
If wedding plans do materialize, they’re expected to look very different from Grande’s past. Sources suggest she’s leaning toward something private and understated this time, possibly an elopement followed by a low-key honeymoon, rather than a highly publicized ceremony.
That preference for privacy reportedly stems from the intense backlash the couple faced when their relationship became public in July 2023, shortly after both had separated from their spouses. Since then, they’ve intentionally kept their romance out of the spotlight, focusing on strengthening their connection away from social media noise.
Marriage, however, may only be the first step. Insiders say Grande has been talking openly about wanting a child and feeling ready for “the whole package.” Slater is said to be fully on board, and friends close to the couple believe family plans could follow quickly after a wedding.
Over the past two years, the pair has steadily merged their lives while navigating demanding careers and constant public attention. Now, as 2026 approaches, the narrative around Grande and Slater appears to be shifting—from controversy and criticism to stability and long-term intention.
Whether they choose to wed in secret or surprise fans with an announcement, those closest to them say Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater are focused less on outside opinions and more on building a future entirely on their own terms.
