For most people, inviting an ex to a family holiday gathering would raise more than a few eyebrows. For Ariana Grande, however, it appears to be perfectly normal. Fresh from wrapping three sold out shows on her Eternal Sunshine Tour in Florida, the pop superstar traded arena crowds for a quiet trip to the supermarket before celebrating the Fourth of July with family.
But it was not just the holiday itself that caught fans' attention. Ariana was joined by her former boyfriend Ricky Alvarez, who accompanied her on a grocery run before heading to her parents' home for the celebration. The unexpected family gathering has only added to growing interest in the pair's close friendship following her recent split from Ethan Slater.
A Family Celebration With a Familiar Face
Ariana was spotted with Ricky Alvarez at a Whole Foods store in Florida on Saturday as the pair stocked up on groceries ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. Instead of heading off in separate directions, they later travelled together to her parents' home, where the family gathered for the holiday.
Ariana Grande Looks Healthier & Keeps 4th of July Vibes Going with Ex Ricky Alvarez Whole Foods Run — (Video: AI)
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) July 6, 2026
The Wicked star was spotted in Boca Raton, Florida, loading up grocery bags with her former backup dancer beau from 2015-2016. Casual jeans-and-hoodie look for her,… pic.twitter.com/RsnsK8bjDj
Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez were spotted at Whole Foods recently, over a decade after their famous photo there.
— Buzzing Pop (@BuzzingPop) July 6, 2026
Both moments were captured by Just Jared. https://t.co/2oKIAhOzoF
While celebrity exes often keep their distance after a breakup, Ariana and Ricky appear to have found a different path. His presence at such a personal family occasion suggests that, despite ending their romantic relationship years ago, he remains someone the singer trusts and enjoys spending time with.
The Holiday Came After a Busy Tour Week
The low key outing followed an intense few days for Ariana, who had just completed three sold out performances of her Eternal Sunshine Tour in Sunrise, Florida. After performing for thousands of fans, the singer seemed happy to slow things down with a relaxed shopping trip before celebrating with family.
The change of pace offered a glimpse into her life away from the stage, where simple moments can often attract just as much attention as a concert. Although nobody knows exactly what was served during the family gathering, Ricky clearly made the guest list.
Ricky Keeps Showing Up
The Fourth of July appearance was not an isolated sighting. Fans have noticed Ricky appearing alongside Ariana several times in recent weeks. He was previously seen attending one of her concerts in Austin, Texas, where Ariana surprised concertgoers by changing one of the lyrics in her hit song 'thank u, next'.
Instead of singing the original line about Ricky, she performed the updated version, replacing 'now I listen and laugh' with 'he's still got my back'. The lyric change immediately caught fans' attention and fuelled fresh discussion about their friendship. Before that, the former couple had also been photographed spending time together in Texas, showing that their renewed closeness has developed gradually rather than appearing overnight.
Friends Despite Their Romantic Past
Despite the growing number of public appearances together, sources have maintained that there is no romantic reunion between Ariana and Ricky. According to reports, the pair remain close friends who have stayed in each other's lives long after ending their relationship.
Their ability to maintain that friendship has become increasingly visible, particularly as Ricky continues to appear during important moments in Ariana's personal and professional life. Rather than trying to avoid speculation, the two have simply continued spending time together, whether at concerts, casual outings or now a family holiday celebration.
After Her Recent Breakup
The renewed attention surrounding Ricky comes shortly after Ariana's relationship with Ethan Slater came to an end. Reports revealed that the couple had quietly separated months before news of the breakup became public in June.
Since then, fans have naturally paid closer attention to the people surrounding the singer, making every appearance with Ricky a talking point online. Even so, those close to the situation continue to insist that the friendship should not be mistaken for a romantic reconciliation.
Their Friendship Continues
Whether it is attending one of Ariana Grande's concerts, inspiring a lyric change in 'thank u, next' or joining her family for the Fourth of July, Ricky Alvarez has quietly become one of the most familiar faces in her life once again. Their recent public appearances together have naturally fuelled speculation, particularly following Ariana's split from Ethan Slater.
Even so, those close to the pair have continued to insist there is nothing romantic between them. Instead, their latest outing appears to reflect a friendship that has remained strong long after their relationship ended. Ricky may no longer be Ariana's boyfriend, but he is clearly still an important part of her life.
