For more than a decade, Ariana Grande has lived under an intense spotlight. Now, the Grammy-winning singer has decided to take some time away from public life.

After completing her ongoing Eternal Sunshine Tour, Grande plans to step back from public appearances. Her team says the decision comes after years of “endless, ongoing public scrutiny” and that she wants to take a well-earned break from the constant visibility that comes with being one of the world’s biggest pop stars.

The announcement also means Grande will no longer appear in the 2027 London revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George, where she had been set to reunite with her Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey.

According to a statement from her representative, Grande is looking forward to finishing the tour on a positive note before taking time away from public-facing commitments. Her team added that she has loved every moment of performing on the tour and is committed to completing it successfully.

Ariana Grande exits Sunday in the Park with George

The producers behind Sunday in the Park with George confirmed that the production will continue despite Grande’s departure.

Empire Street Productions said it fully supports the singer’s decision, acknowledging that it could not have been an easy one. Grande’s role will now be recast, while Jonathan Bailey remains attached to the production.

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The Barbican also confirmed that the musical is still scheduled to open in summer 2027, with further casting announcements expected in the coming months.

Originally premiering on Broadway in 1984, the Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine musical follows French painter Georges Seurat as he works to complete one of his most famous paintings while navigating his relationship with his muse, Dot.

Singer has repeatedly addressed scrutiny over her appearance

Grande’s decision comes just days after releasing her eighth studio album, Petal. The album and its visuals have sparked renewed discussion online about her appearance and wellbeing.

The title track’s music video features Grande playing a performer who is criticised at every turn, first for not meeting beauty standards and later for changing herself to satisfy them. Many fans viewed the video as a commentary on the unrealistic expectations celebrities face.

The singer has spoken openly about this issue before. In a 2024 interview, she reflected on growing up in the public eye and said she had been subjected to constant judgement since she was a teenager. She also described the culture of commenting on people’s bodies and appearances as harmful for both public figures and those making the comments.

Her representative stressed that Grande remains healthy and is continuing to perform the physically demanding Eternal Sunshine Tour, which concludes with a 10-night residency at London’s O2 Arena. The final show is scheduled for September 1, after which she intends to step away from the spotlight.