Ariana Grande is opening up and this time it’s tender reflective and real. While appearing on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast the pop star took a moment to honor the lasting impact the late Mac Miller had on her life and her artistry and honestly it hit right in the feels.
Speaking in front of an audience Ariana shared that Mac encouraged her to be herself at a time when she was still navigating who that even was. Back during her Nickelodeon days while working on her debut album Yours Truly she said he reminded her that it was okay to shed the TV character and step fully into her own identity. Brown hair R&B leaning pop music and all. He pushed her to do the brave thing and embrace the version of herself that felt the most true.
The two first connected musically on her breakout hit The Way before going public with their relationship in 2016. Though they later split due to demanding schedules the love and influence clearly never disappeared. Mac Miller passed away in 2018 at just 26 years old and his death deeply impacted Ariana changing her perspective on life and leaving a permanent mark on her heart.
Elsewhere in the conversation Ariana reflected on the early chaos of juggling acting and music while literally switching identities by the weekend. She laughed about dyeing her hair back and forth performing as Ariana Grande on the weekends then rushing to get the red back in time to be Cat Valentine by Monday morning at six a m. It was exhausting and symbolic of how split she felt back then.
Vibe Culture Daily sees this for what it is. A full circle moment. Ariana honoring the man who helped her find her voice and celebrating how far she’s come since those early days. Growth looks good on her and love like that never really leaves.
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