Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater share intimate moment inside Critics Choice Awards

Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater sat together and shared a close moment at the Awards despite arriving separately.

Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater may have walked the Critics Choice Awards red carpet separately, but inside the ceremony, they stayed close. 

The Wicked co-stars and offscreen couple were spotted sitting together, with Grande placing her hand on Slater’s back as they talked at their table.

Though the pair has yet to make an official red carpet debut as a couple, they have not hidden their relationship at events. Slater spoke to Extra about Grande’s strong bond with co-star Cynthia Erivo, saying, “They’re really supportive of each other… on set, they took care of each other, they took care of everyone.”

the way ethan looks at ariana is actually sooo cute 🥺 #CriticsChoiceAwards pic.twitter.com/PB2U9LVe27

— lettie (@deIenart) February 8, 2025

As for speculation that Grande and Erivo will open the Oscars with a Wicked medley, Slater remained tight-lipped, simply saying, “That sounds great, I really hope so!”

Grande, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Glinda, also earned her first-ever Oscar nomination in the same category. Slater publicly celebrated her achievement with a heartfelt Instagram tribute when the nominations were announced.

Though they have kept their romance mostly private, Grande previously praised Slater in an interview, calling him “someone with the best heart.” As Wicked gains momentum this awards season, fans will be watching for more glimpses of the couple’s offscreen chemistry.