Ariana Grande announces decision to step back from public life

ABC News

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Video Summary

Pop superstar Ariana Grande is stepping back from the spotlight following intense public scrutiny over her health and appearance.

Despite being at the height of her career after a successful transition to Hollywood and her latest album topping charts, Grande announced a break from public-facing work after her "Eternal Sunshine Tour" concludes in London on September 1st. This decision comes after months of fan concerns and criticism, particularly surrounding her weight, amplified by her recent music video for "Pedal." Grande has previously addressed similar comments, sharing in 2023 that the body fans compared her to was her unhealthiest, a period of depression and poor health. Her hit song "Yes, And?" also touched on the theme of body commentary. The singer's representative stated she looks forward to finishing the tour "healthily and happily" before taking her break.

Short Highlights

Ariana Grande is taking a break from public-facing work.
The break follows months of public scrutiny regarding her health and appearance.
Grande has previously addressed comments about her body, calling past comparisons to her unhealthiest period.
The singer will take a break after her "Eternal Sunshine Tour" concludes.

Key Details

Ariana Grande Announces Break from Spotlight [0:00]

The pop superstar is stepping back from public-facing work.
This announcement comes at the height of her career, following her latest album's success and her transition into Hollywood.
Her decision may signal something larger at play, given her current career peak.

"And so for her to take a step back at this point, perhaps is signaling that there's something bigger at play right now."

Fan Concerns and Scrutiny Intensify [0:30]

The decision follows months of public concern about Grande's health and appearance during her "Eternal Sunshine Tour."
Fans expressed worries on social media, with some stating concerns about her thin appearance.
Scrutiny intensified after the release of her music video for "Pedal."

"There is nothing normal about that, y'all. There's nothing normal about that."

Grande's History of Addressing Body Comments [1:30]

Grande has previously confronted speculation about her appearance, particularly her weight.
In 2023, she stated on TikTok that the body fans considered healthy was actually her unhealthiest, a time of depression and poor eating habits.
Her 2024 hit song "Yes, And?" also addressed comments about her body.

"I think we should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people's bodies, no matter what."