Quick Answer: Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande
In brief, Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande began dating in early 2018 after meeting on the set of the music video for Ariana’s song "Thank U, Next." They became widely publicized as a couple, briefly broke up in mid-2018, reconciled that August, and ended things again in early 2019. Both have since described the relationship as supportive but intense, and they have not been publicly linked romantically since late 2019. The following sections clarify the facts, timeline, and context based on credible reporting.
Timeline of the Relationship
Understanding the relationship requires a clear, chronological view of when key events occurred and how they were reported. Below is a summary of notable dates and their significance, with more detail in the following sections.
Key Moments Overview
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| February 2018 | First seen together; Ariana’s "Thank U, Next" video released | Catalyst for public speculation and media coverage |
| March 2018 | Couple publicly acknowledged dating by sources | Shift from rumor to reported relationship |
| May 2018 | Initial breakup reported | Brief period of separation amid busy schedules |
| August 2018 | Reconciliation reported by outlets | Renewed public attention on the couple |
| January 2019 | Second breakup reported | Marked transition to moving on separately |
| Late 2019 | Final reported end; both moved on publicly | Considered the definitive end of the romantic chapter |
How the Relationship Started
Their connection began through work. Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande were first linked after appearing together in Ariana’s "Thank U, Next" music video in February 2018. They had briefly met years earlier at a party, but the video shoot facilitated more than casual recognition. Within weeks, tabloids and entertainment outlets began reporting that they were spending time together, attending events, and growing close. Both were open in interviews about feeling an immediate, strong connection, which intensified media scrutiny. This period established the foundation of what became a highly publicized relationship.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
Media narratives surrounding the couple shifted rapidly. Initially framed as a quirky, wholesome pairing, coverage soon emphasized their age difference, past traumas, and intense bond. Davidson, known for his work on Saturday Night Live, brought a younger, edgier profile, while Grande, a major pop star, faced constant spotlight pressure. At its peak, the relationship dominated entertainment headlines, often overshadowing their individual careers. Public reactions ranged from supportive to critical, with many scrutinizing the speed at which they moved in and out of the relationship. Over time, the coverage evolved from playful to more skeptical, especially after their second breakup.
Media Narrative Arc
- Early coverage: Wholesome and lighthearted
- Height: Intense scrutiny on age gap and mental health openness
- Late phase: Focus on breakup fatigue and moving forward
Breakups and Reconciliation
The relationship was marked by an initial split in May 2018, followed by a high-profile reconciliation that summer. Sources at the time cited distance due to work commitments and emotional exhaustion as factors. By August 2018, they were seen together again at events and gatherings, rekindling rumors. However, the pattern repeated, with another reported breakup in early 2019. This second split appeared more definitive, with both parties focusing on personal projects and healing. While they never publicly detailed every nuance, the timeline suggests a cycle of brief reunions common in high-pressure, high-visibility relationships.
Status and Current Standing
As of now, both Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande are not publicly linked to each other romantically. They have maintained separate personal lives, with Davidson continuing his comedy and television work, and Grande pursuing music, acting, and business ventures. There have been no confirmed reconciliations or indications of a romantic return. Reports from late 2019 onward consistently frame their time as a closed chapter. In recent years, they have each spoken generally about past relationships, describing this period as meaningful yet challenging.
Key Takeaways
The relationship between Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande unfolded quickly, captured intense media attention, and concluded several years ago. For clarity:
- They began dating in early 2018 after meeting on the "Thank U, Next" video set.
- Their timeline included a short breakup in mid-2018, a reconciliation that summer, and a final breakup in early 2019.
- Both have since moved on, and there is no evidence of a current romantic connection.
- Public and media reactions evolved from curiosity to skepticism as the relationship cycled through phases.