Ricky Alvarez Reappears in Ariana Grande’s Tour Finale Amid Romance Speculation

On September 1, during the final stop of her Eternal Sunshine Tour at London’s O2 Arena, Ariana Grande altered a signature line from her 2018 hit “Thank U, Next,” singing “I’m tryna make him my last” — a direct reference to Ricky Alvarez.

Lyric change sparks marriage speculation

The original version of the song includes the lines “Wrote some songs about Ricky / Now I listen and laugh.” Grande replaced them with the new phrasing during the concert, prompting immediate fan reaction across social media platforms.

One X user posted, “THE MARRIAGE IS COMING.” Another wrote, “Ariana really brought Ricky back for one last moment. What a way to close the tour.”

Background on Alvarez and Grande’s relationship

Alvarez first joined Grande’s team in 2014 as a backup dancer. He appeared in live performances and music videos for “Problem” and “Santa Tell Me.” The two dated from April 2015 to July 2016.

Though their romantic relationship ended, they maintained a friendship. After Grande’s split from Ethan Slater, she was seen with Alvarez on June 26 in Austin, Texas, ahead of her Eternal Sunshine Tour performance there.

Grande confirmed the rekindled romance publicly on Instagram on August 12, sharing a photo dump that included images of the pair together.

What insiders have said about their connection

A source close to Grande told People on July 7: “Ricky has always been a friend and confidant. She really trusts him. He has such great, positive energy, makes her laugh, and she enjoys spending time with him.”

The same source added that Grande is “doing really well” following her nearly three-year relationship with Wicked co-star Slater, describing that relationship as “100% over.” Grande is now focused on her tour and on spending time with those who have consistently supported her.