Full Breakdown
Ariana Grande and Ex-Boyfriend Ricky Alvarez Spotted Together on Her Birthday, Followed by “Thank U Next” Lyric Changes
6/28/2026, 12:22:04 PM
Background & Context
Grande and Alvarez dated from June 2015 to July 2016. Alvarez, a former backup dancer, was name-dropped in Grande’s 2018 single “Thank U Next.” The pair have publicly maintained a friendship, exchanging Instagram Stories in 2018 when Alvarez posted a reaction video and Grande reshared it.
Timeline of Recent Events
June 24, 2026 – At the first Austin stop of the Eternal Sunshine Tour, Grande changed the “Thank U Next” line to “Now they kinda slap.”
June 25 – She performed the lyric “Wrote some songs about Ricky, and they still kinda slap.”
June 26 – On her 33rd birthday, Grande and Alvarez were filmed having lunch in Austin; that evening she sang “Wrote some songs about Ricky, I know he’s still got my back,” after which Alvarez turned toward her father and shook his hand.
Data & Statistics
Both artists are 33. The lunch and concert took place in Austin, Texas, on June 26, 2026, during the Eternal Sunshine Tour.
Official Statements & Responses
Grande’s publicist declined comment on the lunch. A source quoted by TMZ said the pair are “just friends.” A People source said they have “been hanging out recently.” In May 2016 Grande told Billboard, “We’re happy… I’m a very happy girl.” A source on her split from Ethan Slater described it as “amicable” and said the two remain “friends.”
Criticism & Opposition
Fans and media have read the lyric changes and lunch as possible signs of a renewed romance. Grande has previously responded to similar speculation on Instagram, stating “We’re friends, everyone take a big ol breather,” and has denied dating rumors in the past.
On-the-Ground Reports
Video shows Grande and Alvarez seated for lunch on June 26; during the concert Alvarez turned toward Grande’s father and shook his hand after the revised lyric.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Rumors of reconciliation conflict with statements that the two are “just friends” and “hanging out recently.” No comment from Grande or her team confirms a romantic relationship.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They’ve been hanging out recently.” — Source, People
- “Nothing but gratitude,” — Ricky Alvarez, Instagram Stories (2018)
- “We’re friends, everyone take a big ol breather,” — Ariana Grande, Instagram comment (2018)
- “Oh for sure … ty next.” — Ariana Grande, Instagram Story resharing Alvarez’s comment (2026)
- “HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAH IM SORRY U GOT THE WORST LINE. It was meant v lovingly.” — Ariana Grande, Instagram comment (2026)
Why It Matters
The episode shows how personal interactions of high-profile artists can spark extensive media coverage and fan speculation, shaping public perception and affecting tour promotion.
What’s Next
Grande’s Eternal Sunshine Tour will continue across U.S. venues through summer 2026; no further Alvarez appearances have been announced.
