“He broke my heart…” Ariana Grande unexpectedly opens up about her two-year romance with ex-husband Dalton Gomez while finding happiness with new love Ethan Slater

In a surprising turn of events, Ariana Grande has broken her silence about her past relationship with ex-husband Dalton Gomez, offering fans a rare glimpse into the emotional turmoil she experienced during their two-year marriage. The pop sensation, now basking in the glow of her romance with “Wicked” co-star Ethan Slater, recently shared candid reflections that have sent shockwaves through her devoted fanbase. Known for keeping her personal life relatively private despite her global stardom, Grande’s revelations come at a time when her career is soaring, and her love life appears to be flourishing anew.

Grande and Gomez’s relationship first captured public attention in early 2020 when they were spotted together, sparking romance rumors. By May of that year, the “Thank U, Next” singer confirmed their relationship in the music video for “Stuck with U,” a duet with Justin Bieber. The couple’s whirlwind romance culminated in an engagement announcement in December 2020, followed by an intimate wedding at their Montecito home in May 2021. At the time, Grande seemed over the moon, sharing heartfelt posts about her love for Gomez, a real estate agent who had largely stayed out of the spotlight. Fans celebrated the union, seeing it as a fresh chapter for the singer after a string of high-profile relationships.

However, the fairy tale began to unravel behind closed doors. In July 2023, reports surfaced that Grande and Gomez had separated earlier that year, with their divorce finalized in March 2024. The split coincided with Grande’s growing closeness to Ethan Slater, her co-star in the highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.” The timeline of these events sparked intense speculation and controversy, with some accusing Grande of overlapping relationships. Now, as she promotes her latest musical endeavors, including the deluxe album “Eternal Sunshine: Brighter Days Ahead,” Grande has chosen to address the rumors head-on.

In a recent interview, Grande didn’t shy away from the pain of her past. “He broke my heart,” she confessed, her voice tinged with vulnerability. “I thought we had something real, something lasting, but I was wrong.” While she didn’t delve into specific details about what led to the end of her marriage, her lyrics in the new album offer clues. Tracks like “Twilight Zone” and “Past Life” have fans buzzing with theories, with lines such as “Hope you win for Best Actor / ‘Cause I had you completely wrong” hinting at disillusionment and betrayal. These songs stand in stark contrast to others, like “Hampstead,” which seems to celebrate her current happiness with Slater, referencing the London neighborhood where their romance blossomed during filming.

Grande’s relationship with Slater has been a lightning rod for criticism since it became public in July 2023, shortly after her separation from Gomez was announced. The timing raised eyebrows, especially as Slater was also navigating his own divorce from Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a young son. Despite the backlash, Grande has defended her new love, calling tabloid portrayals of Slater “bullshit” and praising his character. “No one tries harder or spreads themselves thinner to be there for the people he loves,” she said, shutting down narratives that painted him as a heartless abandoner. The couple’s chemistry was undeniable at recent events like the 2025 Critics Choice Awards and SAG Awards, where they were spotted sharing affectionate moments, further solidifying their bond.

For Grande, the past year has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Professionally, she’s riding the wave of “Wicked”’s success, earning her first Oscar nomination and critical acclaim for her portrayal of Glinda. Personally, she’s found solace in Slater, with insiders claiming the pair are even discussing marriage. “Ethan has been her rock,” a source told a major publication, adding that Grande believes he’s her “soul partner.” Her mother, Joan, is reportedly supportive, eager for her daughter to settle down and start a family.

Reflecting on her journey, Grande acknowledged the emotional toll of public scrutiny. “It’ll never be unpainted,” she admitted, referring to the gossip surrounding her love life. Yet, she remains resolute, embracing her path as an artist and a woman finding her way. “I just try to protect myself so I never resent the art,” she said. As she moves forward with Slater by her side, Grande’s story is one of heartbreak and healing—a reminder that even pop icons face the same human struggles. For now, her fans are left dissecting her music, piecing together the puzzle of a heart once broken, now cautiously open to love again.