The company behind the play said Grande would no longer be involved in the production and that it fully supported her decision.
Ariana Grande at the 83rd Annual Golden Globes held at The Beverly Hilton on January 11, 2026 in Beverly Hills, California. Photo/Getty
In a 2024 interview, Grande spoke about the constant commentary on her appearance and weight.
“I’ve been kind of doing this in front of the public and kind of been a specimen in a petri dish really since I was 16 or 17, so I have heard it all,” Grande said.
“I think that it’s something that is uncomfortable no matter what scale you’re experiencing it on,” she said, “even if you go to Thanksgiving dinner, and someone’s granny says, ‘Oh my God, you look skinnier! What happened?’ or ‘You look heavier! What happened?’”
The retreat from the public follows a wave of online concern over Grande’s health after her music video for Petal was released last Friday, with some viewers describing her as “extremely thin” and expressing concern for her wellbeing.
Ariana Grande is set to retreat from the public spotlight in the coming months as scrutiny over her health and appearance continues. Photo / Ariana Grande
Others defended the singer, calling for an end to speculation and commentary about her body.
“Leave her body alone. Ariana doesn’t exist for your commentary,” wrote one commenter. “Her weight is not a public discussion. Body-shaming a woman for being thin is still body-shaming. Full stop. Protect her energy and keep the focus where it belongs: the music.”
However, others took the view “people are allowed to be concerned for her health”.
British model and body-positivity writer Charlotte Howard was among those who spoke out after the release of Grande’s music video.
“I think it’s vital we discuss imagery/videos/content like these and the damage they can – and will – have on women and girls. WHAT YOU SEE HERE IS NOT NORMAL,” Howard wrote on social media.