Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 9:13 pm GMT
Ethan Slater, the Broadway star known for his role in “SpongeBob SquarePants,” has finalized his divorce from Lilly Jay after a lengthy separation that began amid his high-profile relationship with pop singer Ariana Grande. According to reports from TMZ, a judge approved the divorce settlement on Thursday, although specifics of that agreement remain sealed as is customary for divorces in New York state.
Timeline of Their Relationship
Ethan Slater and Lilly Jay began their relationship in 2012, later marrying in 2018. During their time together, they welcomed a son in 2022. Their marriage, however, unraveled by July 2023 when Slater filed for divorce.
Key events in their journey include:
- 2012: Slater and Jay start dating.
- 2014: The couple relocates to New York City to further Slater’s theatrical career.
- 2018: They marry; Slater earns a Tony nomination that year for “SpongeBob SquarePants.”
- 2022: They welcome their son.
- 2023: Slater files for divorce in July.
Following his separation from Jay, Slater sparked romance rumors with Ariana Grande, his co-star in the upcoming film adaptation of “Wicked.” Their relationship first became public in October 2023, although initial reports of their dating surfaced shortly after Slater filed for divorce.
The New Chapter with Ariana Grande
Grande, who has also recently gone through a divorce from her husband Dalton Gomez, has reportedly maintained a low-profile relationship with Slater, despite growing public interest. The couple first emerged together during a dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York City, where they were seen displaying affection.
In the months following their first public appearance, Grande has supported Slater in various settings. Notable moments include:
- Attending a performance of “Spamalot,” where Slater starred.
- Enjoying a date night at the Stanley Cup Finals in June 2023, where they cheered for the Florida Panthers.
Grande has also been vocal about the scrutiny that has accompanied their relationship. In a recent interview, she expressed her frustration regarding public perception, stating that the negative attention surrounding her relationship presents “an insatiable frustration, an inexplicable hellish feeling with watching people misunderstand the people you love, and you.”
The Effect on Their Families
The public nature of these relationships has put both Slater and Grande in the spotlight. Jay has commented on the situation, indicating that Grande is a significant part of the narrative surrounding the divorce.
In her remarks to Page Six, Jay described the events as leaving her family in, “collateral damage” and emphasized the emotional complexity faced by all parties involved. The ramifications of public relationships paired with the pressures of media attention add layers of difficulty for those navigating personal upheaval against a backdrop of public scrutiny.
Upcoming Projects
As both Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande move forward in their respective careers, they are set to reprise their roles in the film adaptation of “Wicked,” anticipated for release during the Thanksgiving weekend. The attention surrounding this project is likely to amplify interest in their personal lives, along with their evolving relationship. As they continue to appear together in various public settings, it remains to be seen how they will manage their careers and personal lives.
Community Response and Future Outlook
Public responses to the romantic pairing have been mixed, with fans and followers weighing in across social media platforms. While some celebrate the new relationship, others remain critical, particularly given the circumstances surrounding Slater’s divorce.
In addition, both Slater and Grande’s upcoming projects will undoubtedly draw even more media attention. As their professional and personal lives intertwine, fans might see more of their journey together in the months leading up to the film’s release.
With Ethan Slater now officially divorced and pursuing a new chapter with Ariana Grande, the unfolding story promises to captivate audiences. Their experiences highlight the complex intertwining of personal life and public expectation that many public figures face today.
As things change, fans and others will watch closely to see how the couple manages their relationship while also following their own dreams.
