Oscars 2025: Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater's separate arrivals add fuel to the fire. Are they still hiding their romance?

The glitz and glamour of the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre were momentarily overshadowed by a red carpet mystery—Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater once again arrived separately, sparking fresh speculation about the true status of their much-rumored relationship. The Wicked co-stars, who have been making headlines for their off-screen chemistry, kept fans guessing as they walked the carpet alone, continuing their streak of solo appearances at high-profile events.

Is It Privacy or a Silent Split?

Grande, dazzling in a show-stopping couture gown, made her entrance with signature poise — but with no Slater in sight. Meanwhile, Slater, best known for his Broadway prowess and his role as Boq Woodsman in Wicked, cut a sharp figure in a sleek black suit. The pair managed to dodge any public interaction, keeping their rumored romance firmly under wraps.

This is the third major event where the couple has opted for separate entrances, following the Met Gala and the Golden Globes — leaving fans wondering if the distance is a calculated move to maintain privacy or a quiet signal of trouble in paradise.

While neither Grande nor Slater has publicly addressed the status of their relationship, social media has been buzzing with theories. Some speculate the duo is playing the long game to avoid media scrutiny, while others believe their separate arrivals hint at an amicable split behind closed doors.

One fan tweeted: “Are they the new masterclass in keeping Hollywood romance under wraps, or is this the beginning of the end?”

A Night of Glamour

Despite the whispers, the Oscars red carpet was nothing short of a spectacle. Charlotte Lawrence and Andrew Watt packed on PDA, while Julianne Hough channeled Old Hollywood glamour. The night also saw heightened security measures, with former Vice President Kamala Harris expected to make a rare appearance at the event.

Whether they're a power couple playing it cool or quietly moving on, Grande and Slater's separate red carpet strolls have only intensified the intrigue — proving that in Hollywood, sometimes what happens off the red carpet creates the biggest buzz of all.