Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez are boyfriend and girlfriend once again, ten years after they broke it off.
Following a recent performance in New York City, the pop star ignited major internet speculation about rebounding with her ex after calling it quits with her former partner, Ethan Slater, just months ago.
However, close sources confirm it is more than a flirty reunion between the singer and Alvarez.
After weeks of hanging out together, Grande and Alvarez are said to be now official. An insider confirmed the romantic update, saying the two are ready to try again after years apart.
The source explained that the lovebirds are, however, not rushing to make things serious, as they are focused on taking it slow.
The news, confirmed by TMZ, comes after Grande strongly hinted at a potential romantic reunion with Alvarez, after modifying the lyrics to her hit song during a high-profile concert stop in New York City.
While taking the stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Monday, the 33-year-old vocalist adjusted the phrasing of her 2018 record “Thank U, Next” to suggest a rekindled connection. In the original track, the lyrics read, “Wrote some songs about Ricky, now I listen and laugh.”
However, during her recent performance in front of a packed stadium, the singer boldly vocalized the updated phrase to sing, “Wrote some songs about Ricky, we always find our way back.”
A video recording capturing the moment quickly went viral, showing the massive arena audience singing along to the verses honoring her high-profile ex-partners. The audience immediately erupted into deafening screams the moment she delivered the revised line about Alvarez.
Though the two individuals originally went their separate ways in 2016 after a year-long relationship, they have continuously maintained a highly supportive and close friendship.
Ariana Grande Was Recently Spotted With Ricky Alvarez
Grande’s recent performance follows a highly publicized holiday sighting that initially sparked more conversations about her relationship status.
The Blast reported that over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, onlookers spotted the singer and Alvarez spending quality time together during a casual outing.
They appeared relaxed and comfortable in each other’s presence as they completed a quick grocery run at a Whole Foods store.
Grande opted for a comfortable wardrobe, wearing a simple grey sweater paired with denim pants and flat shoes, while her companion selected a classic white polo shirt and dark denim pants. According to reports, the long-time acquaintances were traveling together to Grande’s family’s private residence in Boca Raton to celebrate the holiday.
Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Broke Up Months Ago
Before fueling dating speculation with her past flame, Grande quietly ended her high-profile relationship with her “Wicked” costar, Slater.
At the time of their separation, close sources alleged that the romance had been highly turbulent for a long time. When rumors of a breakup began circulating in late 2025, those in the singer’s inner circle expressed doubts about the relationship’s longevity.
According to The Blast, one source expressed skepticism about their relationship, saying, “If I had to look into my crystal ball, would I think they would stay together? No.”
The Singer Seems To Have A Recurring Romantic Trend
While the sudden end of Grande’s relationship with Slater caught many onlookers off guard, those in the her closest circles viewed the development as part of a highly familiar cycle.
Insiders claimed that the pop star’s romantic history reflects a very specific personal pattern that tends to repeat itself during major transitions in her career. According to individuals close to the situation, Grande has historically struggled to balance personal connections with the demands of her professional commitments.
“Ariana and relationships have always been a bit of a complicated mix. She tends to fall hard and fast, and when she does, it’s all-consuming,” a source revealed, as reported by The Blast.
However, despite the split with Slater, additional sources emphasized that the decision to part ways was mutual and friendly, with both individuals remaining highly supportive of each other’s future endeavors.
Ariana Grande Allegedly Reached Out To Her Lookalike
Amid navigating breakups, makeups, and her highly successful career, Grande has also had to navigate being idolized by fans online. This became evident in a recent interaction between Grande and her popular lookalike, Paige Niemann.
Niemann, who rose to digital fame due to her uncanny physical resemblance to Grande, recently shared the contents of a private direct message she claims the singer sent her years ago.
Rather than criticizing the young influencer’s viral videos, the Grammy-winning artist used the private note to encourage Niemann to find confidence in her natural appearance, per The Blast.
The message from the singer read: “I am flattered and I am sure you’re very sweet. But I just wanted you to know, I looked back a little ways on your page, and I think someone should tell you, if they haven’t today that you’re very beautiful as YOURSELF.”
The message continued by gently advising the influencer that she did not need to alter her features or style to find validation online, adding that she was gorgeous without “all the makeup.”
