Ariana Grande has become the subject of widespread concern among fans following the release of her music video for "Petal." Many observers have noted her significantly thinner frame, drawing parallels to the tragic struggles of late singer Karen Carpenter, who died from anorexia at age 32. The video itself is described as a social commentary on the pressure to conform to Hollywood's beauty standards.
Fans and public figures have voiced apprehension about Grande's health and well-being, citing Carpenter's history as a cautionary tale. Carpenter's death in 1983 from cardiac arrest, attributed to complications from anorexia, is often highlighted as the first celebrity casualty of an eating disorder. Ignorance surrounding eating disorders, pressure to maintain a wholesome image, and denial from those around her were factors in Carpenter's untimely demise.
Grande's team has reportedly dismissed concerns, stating she is "happy and healthy." However, the singer's recent appearance in the "Petal" video, along with social media trends that saw both her and Carpenter's names trending, has amplified these worries. Following the online discourse, Grande's spokesperson announced her intention to step back from public-facing work after concluding her "Eternal Sunshine" tour, citing "ongoing public scrutiny" over her appearance.
Grande has not explicitly addressed concerns about an eating disorder. She did, however, state during a recent tour stop that her planned hiatus was "not a reactive or impulsive thing" but a decision made "a long time ago" from a "thoughtful and empowered place." She emphasized that "multiple things can be true at the same time" and that boundaries and breaks are sometimes necessary.
Public figures, including actresses Jameela Jamil and Charli Howard, have spoken out about Grande's appearance. Howard shared posts questioning the impact of such imagery on young women, while Jamil expressed concern that Grande might be "possibly dying right in front of us." Jamil later clarified her comments, stating her own past struggles with anorexia and emphasizing the irresponsibility of glamorizing a potentially harmful aesthetic for young fans.
Karen Carpenter's own struggle with an eating disorder became public knowledge in 1981 when she was asked directly about anorexia. She later confided in her brother, Richard, and began treatment. Despite making progress, including gaining weight in intensive care, years of malnourishment had taken a severe toll on her body. Her death was ultimately linked to heart failure caused by the repeated use of ipecac syrup, an emetic drug.
The "Eternal Sunshine" tour is scheduled to conclude in London on September 1. Following its completion, Grande is set to withdraw from public view. She had also exited a planned role in the musical "Sunday in the Park with George."