Pop star Ariana Grande has stated that her decision to take a break from public appearances was made with careful consideration and was not an impulsive reaction to external pressures. Grande addressed her fans directly during her Chicago show on Monday, aiming to clarify the narrative surrounding her choice.
"No matter what noises exist out there, nothing will be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or not as real to me as this love that we share," Grande told the audience, reading from notes she had prepared. She emphasized that the decision was made "from a thoughtful and empowered place."
A representative for Grande had previously informed People magazine that the singer would be taking a "well-earned break" following prolonged public scrutiny. This scrutiny has often focused on her physical appearance and health in recent years.
Grande described her current tour, which is set to conclude with a 10-night run in London on September 1, as "one of the most healing, beautiful, correct and special experiences" of her life. She also conveyed to her fans that "boundaries need to be set."
Following the announcement of her hiatus, fans have expressed both support for the artist and concern for her well-being, with the hashtag #weloveyouariana trending on social media.