Ariana Grande Clarifies Spotlight Break Onstage: ‘Not an Impulsive Thing’

 Ariana Grande is setting the record straight about her upcoming pause from the public eye.

During the August 3 Chicago stop of her Eternal Sunshine Tour, the "We Can't Be Friends" singer paused her set at the United Center to speak directly to the crowd regarding her decision to step back from public-facing work.

Addressing footage shared across social media, the 33-year-old performer noted that stories not coming directly from her can "get a little blown out of proportion," prompting her desire to speak candidly with her fanbase.

A Planned and Empowered Choice

The Grammy winner reassured concertgoers that her decision was not made in haste, addressing fan concerns that recent public pressure had forced her hand.

"The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing," the Wicked star told the audience. "It is something that I had decided, a plan I had quietly made a long time ago, and it’s a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place."

She went on to explain that setting personal boundaries does not diminish her passion for her work or her appreciation for the current tour.

"I want you to know that many things can be true at the same time," the pop star said. "Boundaries can need to be set, human beings can need a break sometimes, and also, this can be and will continue to be the greatest experience of my professional career."

Reflections on the Tour and Public Scrutiny

Focusing on the positive impact of her current run of shows, the Oscar nominee shared that the tour has been "the most healing, beautiful, corrective, magnificent, special experience" of her life.

She emphasized that outside noise would not alter her experience or her connection with her fans, adding that she plans to carry the positive moments with her while leaving behind the rest of the outside narrative.

Following her four-minute address to the crowd, the musician expressed relief, telling the audience, "That felt good," before continuing with her scheduled performance.

Looking Ahead to the Tour Conclusion

The onstage statement follows an official confirmation released on August 2 by the singer's representative.

In a statement provided to People, her spokesperson confirmed that the artist intends to step away from public work following the conclusion of her current tour schedule.

"She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny," her spokesperson stated.

The Eternal Sunshine Tour is scheduled to wrap its run on September 1 in London.

https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ariana-grande-addresses-taking-a-step-back-from-spotlight/