Ariana Grande to Withdraw From The Limelight After Tour Completion Following Health Scrutiny

Ariana Grande is preparing to step back from public life after the conclusion of her Eternal Sunshine Tour. A representative for the Grammy-winning singer told People that Grande intends to take “a step back from visibility” once the tour wraps at London’s O2 Arena on Sept. 1, bringing a pause to the singer-actress’ grueling schedules that included a global concert tour, new music and multiple film commitments.

According to her representative, Grande has loved returning to the stage and remains committed to finishing the tour, but the past two years have brought “endless, ongoing public scrutiny.” Much of that attention has centered on her appearance. Conversation around her body intensified throughout the Wicked press tour and resurfaced during the Eternal Sunshine Tour before reaching another peak following the release of her new album Petal and its title track’s music video. Grande’s visibly skinnier frame has drawn tons of concern from fans, who loudly suspected everything from weight loss drug use to eating disorders. Grande has previously addressed public commentary about her body, reminding fans that appearances can be misleading and urging people to think twice before making personal judgments.

The break has already affected Grande’s upcoming schedule. Producers of the London revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George confirmed that the singer has withdrawn from the production, which would have marked her West End debut opposite her Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey. In a statement, the production said it fully understands and supports her decision and will announce a replacement at a later date.

Grande’s rep said the singer hopes to conclude the remaining shows “healthily and happily” before taking time away from public-facing work. No timeline has been announced for her return, though Grande remains attached to the upcoming comedy Focker-in-Law, which is scheduled to arrive in theaters later this year.