The conversation around Ariana Grande has one major problem, and zero winners.
Slate • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Ariana Grande is being compared to Karen Carpenter due to their early fame, vocal acclaim, and intense public scrutiny, particularly regarding their physical appearances and health.
- Grande’s recent extreme thinness during her Eternal Sunshine tour and the release of her album Petal has sparked concern and speculation about her health, echoing fears reminiscent of Carpenter’s struggle with anorexia.
- Grande’s new "Petal" music video critiques the harsh judgments women face about their bodies and authenticity, but public focus remains heavily on her physical appearance rather than her artistry.
- Despite widespread concern, discussions about Grande’s body are complicated by the tension between respecting her autonomy and addressing potential health risks, with meaningful intervention limited to her inner circle.
- Grande is taking a break from public life after two decades of continuous work, providing her an opportunity for rest or treatment, while society grapples with the cultural implications of idolizing increasingly thin female celebrities.
