Ariana Grande's 'Petal' and the Ethics of Celebrity Body Commentary
The New Yorker critic discusses the public discourse surrounding Ariana Grande's appearance during her Eternal Sunshine Tour and the release of her eighth album 'Petal'. The article critiques the tendency to diagnose celebrities from afar, while also acknowledging the societal pressures on women's bodies. Grande's representative announced she would step back from public visibility after the tour, though Grande clarified the decision was made long ago. The piece references her music video for 'Petal', which features horror themes and a fictional ingénue, and notes the public's speculation about an eating disorder. The critic attended a Chicago show and described it as spectacular, but reflects on the fragility of celebrity and the limits of observation.
Key facts
- Ariana Grande released her eighth album 'Petal' on March 7, 2025.
- The Eternal Sunshine Tour supports her seventh album 'Eternal Sunshine' and includes 11 stops and 41 shows.
- Grande performed in Montreal on the release date of 'Petal'.
- The music video for 'Petal' was shot on VistaVision and billed as a short film.
- Grande's representative told People magazine she would step back from visibility after the tour.
- Grande corrected the timing of her withdrawal at a Chicago show, saying plans were made 'a long time ago'.
- The article references Todd Blanche, acting Attorney General, and potential restrictions on abortion medication.
- Grande previously cautioned in 2023 to be 'gentler and less comfortable commenting on people's bodies'.
Entities
Artists
- Ariana Grande
Institutions
- The New Yorker
- People magazine
- Justice Department
Locations
- Montreal
- Chicago