Singer and Academy Award nominated actress Ariana Grande will be stepping back from the spotlight after what her rep called “endless, ongoing public scrutiny” of her. The star was due to appear in a new stage production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical Sunday in the Park with George alongside Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey in London, but now will no longer undertake “public-facing work and appearances” after her Eternal Sunshine Tour finishes in London next month.
Grande has recently faced much speculation due to her rapid weight loss and physical appearance over the past few years, which has drawn concerns from many, including celebrities like Jameela Jamil. Many have noted her frail figure in her “Eternal Sunshine” tour and her new music video, “Petal”. Some have compared her to 70s star Karen Carpenter, a talented musician who tragically passed away from an eating disorder.
“It’s not about wanting the old Ariana back. It’s about wanting her to be healthy,” one fan wrote in the comments of the music video on YouTube.
“The comparative messaging of ‘blooming wherever you are planted’ to the fact that she is literally withering away is unreal. Just wild,” another shared.
A third commented, “Seeing the state of her in the second fit was frightening. She’s so beautiful but deeply unwell omg.”
Grande’s rep responded with the following statement: “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 and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.
“This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much.”
A source close to Grande told People that her tour show required a high level of athletic ability and that she performed healthily night after night.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, please do not hesitate to reach out to the appropriate authorities.
