Ariana Grande told fans during a concert in Chicago that her decision to step back from public life after completing her “Eternal Sunshine” world tour was made long before recent speculation surrounding her personal life and was not a reaction to current events.
Speaking Monday at the United Center, Grande addressed reports about her planned hiatus, saying she wanted to “clear the air” following news that she intends to withdraw from public-facing work after the tour concludes.
Reading from notes on her phone, Grande said the decision had been made “quietly” some time ago and came from “a thoughtful and empowered place,” adding that “many things can be true at the same time.”
Grande Says Hiatus Was Carefully Planned
Grande said the decision to take a break was the result of careful consideration rather than a response to recent public attention.
Her remarks came a day after news emerged that she had withdrawn from a planned role in a 2027 production of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park With George at London’s Barbican Theatre.
The singer has recently faced increased public scrutiny, including speculation about her health and appearance following the release of her album Petal, her ongoing world tour and reports that she and Wicked co-star Ethan Slater had ended their relationship.
Grande has previously addressed public commentary about her appearance. In a TikTok video posted in 2023, she urged people to be more thoughtful when discussing other people’s bodies, saying such conversations should be approached with greater compassion.
A representative for Grande told People magazine that the singer plans to step back from public visibility after completing the tour. According to the representative, Grande intends to finish the concerts “healthily and happily” before taking what was described as a well-earned break from public-facing work following an extended period of public scrutiny.
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The representative declined to provide additional comment to The Associated Press.
Tour Continues Through September
Grande also reassured fans that recent public attention has not diminished her enthusiasm for performing.
She told the Chicago audience that establishing personal boundaries and taking time away from the spotlight would not lessen her appreciation for the tour, describing the concerts as the highlight of her professional and creative life.
The “Eternal Sunshine” world tour is scheduled to conclude on Sept. 1 in London after a 10-night residency at The O2 Arena.
This report is based on reporting by The Associated Press.
