Ricky Alvarez Reacts to Shout-Out from Ariana Grande After She Changed ‘Thank U, Next’ Lyrics During Her Birthday Show

**Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez: A Nostalgic Reunion on Stage**

Ariana Grande’s recent birthday concert in Austin, Texas, saw a delightful twist on one of her most famous hits, “Thank U, Next,” as the pop icon paid homage to her past relationship with Ricky Alvarez. The performance, part of her Eternal Sunshine Tour on June 26, reignited interest in their connection, a relationship that spanned from 2015 to 2016.

During the concert at the Moody Center, Grande altered the lyrics to reflect a seemingly renewed bond. Instead of the original line, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / Now I listen and laugh,” she sang, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / I know he’s still got my back.” This alteration did not go unnoticed by the audience, and a video clip circulating on social media captured Alvarez’s reaction as he stood in the VIP area. When he heard the new lyrics, Alvarez quickly turned towards Grande, and the two exchanged a proud handshake, showcasing their supportive rapport.

Adding to the buzz, Grande and Alvarez had been spotted having lunch together in Austin just days before the concert. A source later indicated to PEOPLE that the two had been “hanging out recently,” further prompting speculation about a possible rekindling of their friendship or relationship.

Grande and Alvarez, who began dating when she was 21, largely kept their romance away from the media spotlight. Despite their split in mid-2016, Grande reflected fondly on their time together in various interviews. She once mentioned to Billboard, “We’re happy. I’m a very happy girl. I have a healthy life right now,” underscoring the positive aspects of their relationship at the time.

After her relationship with Alvarez, Grande’s romantic life continued to make headlines, featuring notable relationships with Mac Miller, Pete Davidson, and Dalton Gomez. Most recently, she was linked to Ethan Slater, with sources confirming the couple quietly split several months ago after dating for nearly three years. The end of that relationship was described as amicable, with both parties remaining supportive of each other.

The affection for Alvarez was evident not just during this recent concert but also during previous occasions. When “Thank U, Next” first debuted, Alvarez took to social media to share his thoughts, expressing gratitude and playful humour about his involvement in the song. He posted a video of himself reacting to the track, giving fans a glimpse into his feelings towards Grande’s heartfelt lyrics.

Grande, known for her infectious sense of humour, responded to his post with light-hearted banter, reinforcing both their camaraderie and mutual respect. “Oh for sure … ty next,” she wrote, before jokingly adding, “HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAH IM SORRY U GOT THE WORST LINE,” signalling the playful relationship they maintained even after their breakup.

As the pop star continues her tour, the nostalgia surrounding her performances and the changes to beloved lyrics seem to resonate with fans, offering a glimpse into her personal life and the bonds she cherishes. The evolving narrative between Grande and Alvarez has sparked conversations about nostalgia, relationships, and the complexities of maintaining connections in the public eye.

With both artists focusing on their careers while seemingly keeping their friendship alive, it remains to be seen what the future holds for them, musically and personally. One thing is clear: their history continues to inspire not only their art but also the fans who have followed their journey over the years.

In the ever-evolving landscape of celebrity relationships, Grande and Alvarez’s story serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music and love, whether it is romantic or a cherished friendship. As fans look forward to Grande’s future performances, they may anticipate more lyrical surprises that hint at her life beyond the stage.