Ariana Grande had a stellar night at the MTV Video Music Awards at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Winning three awards, Ariana Grande’s MTV successes included Video of the Year, Best Pop, and Best Long Form Video for “Brighter Days Ahead” from her Eternal Sunshine deluxe album. However, her solo appearance without partner Ethan Slater sparked online speculation about their relationship.
Grande dazzled in a custom Fendi polka dot dress on the red carpet. She was joined inside by her father, Edward Butera, mother, Joan Grande, brother Frankie Grande, and Frankie’s husband, Hale Leon. In her emotional Best Pop acceptance speech, she highlighted her Ariana Grande MTV wins, saying, “Thank you to my fans. I love you so much. Thank you, MTV, and my dad, who acted in this video. He’s the best scene partner and dad.”
She praised her team for bringing her vision to life, calling it “fanciful yet specific, vulnerable yet protective.” Her wins solidified her status as a pop icon at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards.
Why fans are convinced Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater's relationship is over https://t.co/v6QBLTj0JI ⬇️
— Daily Mail Celebrity (@DailyMailCeleb) September 9, 2025Slater, Grande’s partner since 2023, didn’t attend the VMAs, fueling breakup rumours. Days earlier, he was spotted with his ex-wife, Lilly Jay and their son in Jersey City, likely for co-parenting. A source told People, “Ariana and Ethan are still together and very happy. They like keeping their private life private.” Slater showed support by sharing Grande’s acceptance speech on Instagram Stories, praising her achievements. Many saw this as yet another highlight of Ariana Grande’s MTV achievements.
Read: MTV VMAs 2025: Winners Full List and Highlights
The couple, who met on the Wicked set, has kept their relationship low-key. They’ve appeared together at events like the Oscars but avoid public attention. Grande once said, “It’s much different than what’s portrayed in public.”
Grande’s VMA success highlights her musical talent, while the rumours reflect the scrutiny celebrities face. Her private approach with Slater shows her focus on balancing fame and personal life. As she promotes Wicked and her music, fans eagerly await her next moves.
