Ariana Grande addressed her fans from the stage at Chicago’s United Center on Monday night. She explained her decision to step away from the public eye once her ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour ends. Grande emphasized that ‘things can get a little blown out of proportion’ and clarified her break was a thoughtful, long-planned decision.
Reading from her phone, Grande stated, ‘It was a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place. And I want you to know that many things can be true at the same time.’
Recent developments have kept Grande in the headlines. This includes her withdrawal from a role in Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Sunday in the Park With George.’ The production is planned for 2027 at London’s Barbican theater. Additionally, Grande’s breakup with co-star Ethan Slater, coupled with the ongoing tour and release of her album ‘Petal,’ has sparked speculation online.
Grande has spoken out against public conversations about her appearance. In a 2023 TikTok video, she stated, ‘I think we should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people’s bodies, no matter what.’
A representative for the singer informed People magazine that Grande will step back from public work and media exposure after the tour concludes. ‘She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work,’ the statement read.
During her concert speech, Grande reassured fans. ‘Negativity was ruining things’ is not true, she said, asserting, ‘Multiple things can be true at the same time: boundaries need to be set, human beings can need a break sometimes, and also, this can be and will continue to be the greatest experience of my professional and creative life.’
The ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour will wrap up on September 1 in London. Her final shows include a 10-night residency at the O2 Arena.