Singer shares intimate photographs on social media as sources say the couple are taking things “step by step” during her demanding tour schedule.
A soft launch during a hard tour
Ariana Grande has confirmed she is dating Ricky Alvarez once again, sharing a series of photographs with her former partner that leave little doubt about the status of their relationship.
In a post published to her personal blog on Thursday, the singer included a blurry image of the pair embracing, tagging Alvarez directly in the post. The public acknowledgement marks a significant step for the notoriously private pop star, who has faced intense scrutiny over her personal life in recent years.
A reunion months in the making
Last month, sources exclusively told Page Six that Grande and Alvarez had rekindled their romance following her split from Ethan Slater after three years together.
“But she isn’t rushing into anything serious,” an insider said at the time. “She has an incredibly busy schedule right now with the tour, so they are taking things step by step.”
Speculation about the reunion first surfaced in June, when Alvarez was spotted at several stops on Grande’s Eternal Sunshine tour. Sources noted that Alvarez has maintained a strong relationship with Grande’s family over the years — a factor said to be deeply valued by the singer — and that he has been a steady source of support during her gruelling live commitments.
A planned retreat from the spotlight
The rekindled relationship comes as Grande prepares to step away from the public eye. A representative for the artist confirmed that following the conclusion of her tour in September, she intends to take a “well-earned break” to shield herself from what was described as “relentless public pressure and criticism.”
Those close to the singer say she plans to spend the upcoming hiatus surrounded by family, friends, and Alvarez.
Earlier this week, Grande announced the upcoming pause after the tour’s final dates. Fans have linked the decision to ongoing concerns about her health, noting a visible change in her appearance over recent months. Insiders claim that those closest to the star are also worried, with family members reportedly “begging her to slow down.”
