Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez, who previously dated in 2016, are reportedly rekindling their romance, taking a cautious approach as they navigate their renewed connection. The couple, who have maintained a close friendship since their split, have been seen spending time together once again during Grande’s ongoing Eternal Sunshine concert tour.
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On 18 July, Alvarez was spotted at Grande’s concert at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Enthusiastically joining in with the crowd, he was observed dancing and snapping photos during her performance. The 35-year-old, dressed in a casual grey beanie and blue flannel shirt, seemed to be enjoying the atmosphere, sharing smiles and laughter with friends while capturing moments from the show.
Despite their romantic history, insiders indicate that the former couple is taking a deliberate pace in their relationship. A source revealed to PEOPLE that they are “taking things very slowly,” suggesting a gradual approach to their potential reunion. Grande, 33, has expressed comfort in Alvarez’s presence, viewing him as both a friend and a confidant.
Grande and Alvarez began their romance in 2015, but their relationship came to an end the following year. Although they parted ways, they have continued to support each other from a distance. Following Grande’s release of the song “Thank U, Next,” which famously includes mentions of her exes, Alvarez made a public show of support through social media.
The pair was recently spotted together in Austin, Texas, where they celebrated Grande’s birthday on 26 June. Following the celebratory evening, Alvarez attended the pop star’s concert, sitting in the VIP area, which sparked speculation about their rekindled relationship. Sources confirmed that they have been reconnecting more frequently of late.
Further developments in their relationship were noted over the Fourth of July weekend when Alvarez spent time with Grande and her family in Florida. According to a source, Grande appreciates having close friends accompany her during her tour, and Alvarez’s presence has been especially uplifting for her.
Adding to the speculation, Grande has made alterations to her lyrics in recent performances that acknowledge Alvarez. During her shows, she has incorporated personalised lines that reference him, including, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / I know he’s still got my back.” These lyric changes, particularly during his birthday performance, have caused fans to buzz about the possibility of their reunion being more than just a friendship.
As Grande continues with her ambitious 41-date tour, she is set to release her eighth album, titled Petal, later this month. Observers are keen to see how her creative work influences her relationship with Alvarez as they navigate their evolving dynamic.
As the couple takes their time to reconnect, sources emphasise that Ariana is happy to have Alvarez back in her life. “He has always been a friend and confidant,” the insider commented. “She trusts him completely and feels she can truly be herself around him.” This blend of emotional connection and shared history could signal a promising future for the pair, provided they continue to approach their relationship at their own pace.
Only time will tell how this rekindling will evolve, but for now, Grande and Alvarez seem committed to exploring their bond once more, with caution and care at the forefront of their renewed connection.