Ariana Grande’s recent appearances, particularly at the Wicked red carpet premiere in Los Angeles and subsequently in London, have ignited a fresh wave of concern among fans regarding her physique. The singer, known for her petite frame, appeared noticeably slender, prompting many to take to social media platforms like TikTok and X to voice worries about her well-being. This public reaction begs the question: Why Is Ariana Grande So Skinny, and is there legitimate cause for alarm?
The discourse began when images and videos from the Wicked premieres circulated online, showcasing Grande alongside co-stars Cynthia Erivo and Jonathan Bailey. Viewers quickly pointed out her slim shoulders, prominent collarbones, and visible sternum. Comments ranged from expressions of concern to outright speculation about her health. One user articulated a common sentiment, stating, “I love Ariana and I don’t think people should comment on other people’s bodies at all, but there’s no way you can look at her and not think she’s not healthy.” Others described her as looking “fragile” and “worryingly small,” even for someone known to be petite.
These observations tap into established health knowledge. Medical experts have often highlighted that visible sternums and gaunt cheeks in adults can be indicators of underlying health issues. These signs can potentially point to conditions like malnourishment or lipoatrophy, which involves the loss of fat tissue. Malnutrition, in particular, carries significant health risks, extending beyond mere weight loss. It can lead to decreased energy levels, mood disturbances, muscle mass reduction (increasing the risk of falls), weakened immunity, and a higher susceptibility to infections. Furthermore, a severe lack of subcutaneous fat can contribute to pressure sores and impede wound healing, potentially prolonging hospital stays in severe cases.
Adding fuel to the speculation fire, some online commentators even theorized that Grande might be using weight-loss medications like Ozempic, especially considering the timeframe of the Wicked movie production. While there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, the conjecture reflects the current societal conversation around rapid weight loss and the use of such drugs.
However, it’s crucial to consider Ariana Grande’s own narrative on her body and health. Last year, the “Thank U, Next” artist directly addressed body-shaming comments and asserted that she was healthier than ever. In a candid three-minute TikTok video, she acknowledged the public’s concerns but urged for more sensitivity regarding commentary on people’s bodies. She emphasized, “I think we should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people’s bodies, no matter what.” Grande further elaborated that even seemingly “well-intentioned” remarks about someone’s physique, whether positive or negative, contribute to a culture of body scrutiny that can be harmful.
Moreover, Grande made a significant revelation about her past body image and health. She stated that the version of herself that people were comparing her current appearance to was actually her “unhealthiest.” She openly shared that during that period, she was struggling with mental health, taking antidepressants, and engaging in unhealthy habits like drinking and poor eating. According to Grande, her current body reflects a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, even if it appears thinner to the public eye. She concluded her message by stating, “Healthy can look different,” advocating for a broader understanding of health and beauty beyond conventional standards.
Adding another layer to the context, reports from interviews with both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo suggest an intensely demanding filming schedule for Wicked. Both actresses contracted COVID-19 during production, and alluded to the immense pressure and workload. Erivo even expressed gratitude for the actors’ strike halting production, admitting they had “worked [themselves] to the bone” and needed rest. Such demanding work conditions, coupled with potential illness, can undoubtedly impact physical health and potentially contribute to weight loss.
In conclusion, the question of why Ariana Grande is so skinny is multifaceted. Public concern stems from visual cues associated with potential health issues, coupled with societal anxieties around body image. However, Ariana Grande herself has offered a counter-narrative, emphasizing her improved health and well-being, and challenging conventional beauty standards. Furthermore, the demanding nature of her recent work could also be a contributing factor. Ultimately, while public concern may arise from a place of care, it’s essential to respect Ariana Grande’s personal journey and her own statements about her health, while acknowledging the complexities of public perception and individual well-being.
