Ariana Grande seen with ex Ricky Alvarez in Texas after split from Ethan Slater

Ariana Grande was photographed dining with her former backup dancer Ricky Alvarez at a restaurant in Austin, Texas, on June 25‑26, 2026 while on her Eternal Sunshine tour and celebrating her 33rd birthday. A source told TMZ that “there is nothing romantic between Ariana and Ricky this time around,” and that the singer was simply hanging out with friends.

The sighting follows the public revelation that Grande and her Wicked co‑star Ethan Slater had ended their relationship months earlier. Both parties remained amicable, according to sources. During the same tour, Grande altered the lyric of “Thank U, Next” from “Wrote some songs about Ricky, now I listen and laugh” to “Wrote some songs about Ricky, now they still kinda slap,” which sparked additional fan speculation about her connection to Alvarez.

Despite widespread rumors, representatives for Grande have not confirmed any rekindled romance, stating the meeting was a friendly birthday gathering.