Ariana Grande Says Her Upcoming Break Planned Long Term Not Impulsive.
Ariana Grande has addressed her decision to take a break from the public eye during a concert in Chicago, emphasizing that it was a long-planned choice rather than an impulsive reaction to criticism.
During her performance on Monday night, Grande acknowledged that her representatives had previously cited "endless, ongoing public scrutiny" as the reason for her upcoming hiatus. However, she clarified that this decision was not made reactively but after careful consideration over time. Grande stated, "I quietly made a plan to take a break a long time ago," indicating that the idea of stepping back from the spotlight had been in the works for some time.
The singer addressed concerns about negativity impacting her well-being and career, suggesting that social media debates about her appearance and health were part of what she termed "public scrutiny." Grande emphasized the importance of setting boundaries, stating, "Boundaries need to be set. I can need a break while going through the greatest experience of my professional and creative life."
Grande's representatives had previously announced that she would take a step back from public visibility after her tour concludes next month. They cited ongoing scrutiny as the reason for this decision, noting that Grande looks forward to finishing the tour on a high note before taking time away from public-facing work.
The singer's representatives also mentioned that Grande has two more shows in Chicago and will perform ten concerts in London before concluding her current tour. Following these announcements, Grande's official X account confirmed she had dropped out of an upcoming production of "Sunday in the Park With George," a decision supported by the show's producers.
Social media discussions surrounding Grande's appearance have been ongoing, with fans expressing concerns about her health and weight loss. A comment on the "Petal" music video, which has garnered over 62,000 likes, stated, "It’s not about wanting the old Ariana back. It’s about wanting her to be healthy." Celebrities like Jameela Jamil and conservative commentator Meghan McCain have also weighed in, with Jamil calling Grande's appearance "dangerous" and McCain describing it as "very, VERY sad."
In response to such scrutiny, Grande has previously defended herself on social media platforms, stating that her body from years prior was the "unhealthiest version of my body," noting she was on antidepressants and drinking alcohol at the time. She added, "We should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people's bodies no matter what."
Critics have interpreted Grande's new album, "Petal," as a direct response to her dissatisfaction with fame and public scrutiny. The lead single, "Hate That I Made You Love Me," has been seen by some as addressing obsessive fans rather than a lover. Billboard's critic described the album as "pretty much a manicured middle finger aimed directly at the public," while Pitchfork noted that it contains lines like, "All that sh-t talk keeps me well-fed."
Grande's decision to step back from public life comes after releasing her new album and amidst ongoing discussions about her personal life and appearance. Her representatives have stated that she looks forward to finishing the tour on a high note before taking time away from public-facing work, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries in her career.
