Ariana Grande's 'Eternal Sunshine' world tour has arrived at London's O2 arena, where the singer is scheduled to perform ten shows for over 200,000 fans. The tour's opening night saw Grande take the stage amidst considerable public attention regarding her health and appearance.
Grande opened her London performances with "Yes, And?," a song released two years ago that marked her return to pop music. The anthem includes lyrics that address speculation about her personal life and body, stating, "Don't comment on my body, do not reply. Your business is yours and mine is mine." This performance comes as Grande, 33, has announced a temporary step back from public-facing work following intense scrutiny, particularly concerning her health and weight. Concerns were amplified by the release of her new single "Petal" on July 31, where her visibly thinner frame drew varied reactions, including comparisons to past public figures who struggled with anorexia. TV star Jameela Jamil posted on X, "This poor woman is possibly dying right in front of us," a comment that itself sparked backlash.
Following the public reaction, Grande's representatives announced that she would be stepping away from public work after the London dates conclude on September 1. During a concert in Chicago, Grande reassured attendees that her decision to retreat from the spotlight was a "thoughtful, empowered place" and had been planned for some time. However, the "Petal" video was filmed in early July, and it has been less than two weeks since she withdrew from a planned role in the Stephen Sondheim musical revival, "Sunday In The Park with George."
Despite arguments that commenting on Grande's appearance is morally wrong, the author contends that as a role model to millions, silence can be misconstrued as acceptance. Grande has leveraged her image extensively through her own make-up range, a global ambassadorship with Swarovski, and a perfume collection. The tour itself features extensive and high-priced merchandise, including sweatshirts, T-shirts, hats, and gloves. Her career also includes a recent Oscar nomination for her role as Glinda in "Wicked."
Thousands of fans at the O2 arena donned attire inspired by Grande, including specific hairstyles and clothing items, mirroring her signature style. The author argues that with significant fame and fortune comes responsibility, and the release of images in the "Petal" video without explanation could be damaging, especially to a young, impressionable fanbase.
This is not the first time Grande's appearance has drawn public commentary. In 2023, after similar concerns were raised, she posted a TikTok video stating that "there are many different ways to look healthy and beautiful."
During her 105-minute performance on Saturday, Grande delivered 26 songs, showcasing powerful vocals and executing complex choreography in high heels. While her stamina was noted, it was compared to the longer sets of artists like Taylor Swift and Adele. The author posits that Grande's ability to perform such a demanding show, requiring significant strength, stamina, and mental focus, might support her argument that "healthy can look different."
Despite the star's assertions, the author believes the underlying issues surrounding her public image and health warrant further discussion, even after an otherwise "heavenly evening."