Pete Davidson is speaking out against the relentless social media commentary directed at his former fiancée, Ariana Grande. Speaking in a candid interview with Variety, the stand-up comedian pushed back against online critics targeting the pop superstar, condemning the toxicity surrounding her public image.
Davidson made his stance clear, describing the intense judgment surrounding Grande’s looks as entirely uncalled for.
“I don’t like it at all. It’s not cool. She’s a really strong person — I’ve witnessed it — and I don’t understand it,” Davidson told Variety. “She knows how to handle this stuff, though. She’s been around. So she’ll be OK, but I think it’s f—ed up.”
The comments came as Grande has faced increased public attention over her appearance and recent decision to step back from visibility. In 2024, she discussed similar scrutiny during an interview while promoting the film adaptation of Wicked.
According to Grande, she had been subjected to comments about her looks since she was a teenager and argued that people should not feel comfortable commenting on someone else’s body, health, or appearance.
Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande’s history adds context to his comments on her appearance
Davidson and Grande famously began dating in May 2018, getting engaged shortly after before calling off their relationship in October of that year. Grande later referenced Davidson in her hit 2018 single “Thank U, Next,” acknowledging their brief engagement alongside her other high-profile past relationships.
Reflecting on the unique bond they shared, Davidson offered a lighter perspective on their past.
“There should be a group for us,” Davidson joked. “It’s something that comes up once in a while. But I think Ariana’s f—in cool and immensely talented and an awesome girl. We’re not texting or whatever, but we’re cool.”
Grande recently wrapped up her Eternal Sunshine Tour in September before stepping back from public engagements. A representative confirmed to People that the singer plans to take an extended break from public-facing press to retreat from intense media commentary.
Both stars continue to navigate their careers in entertainment, with Grande balancing film and music releases while Davidson maintaining his stand-up comedy and acting roles.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
