The pop star has pulled out of a major London stage production following intense public scrutiny regarding her physical appearance.. The move follows the release of her "Petal" music video and a recent performance at Montreal's Bell Centre.
The "Petal" video backlash and the Montreal Bell Centre performance
Ariana Grande's decision to withdraw from the Barbican's production of Sunday in the Park with George marks a significant shift in her professional commitments. The announcement follows a period of intense social media scrutiny regarding her physical appearance.
The controversy intensified following the release of the "Petal" music video,which features Grande using a chainsaw against music executives. As reported by the source, public attention shifted away from the video's cinematic themes toward Grande's strikingly slender physique.
Jameela Jamil, a British actress and activist, criticized the public reaction and the imagery used in the video. Jamil suggested that the release of such images could be irresponsible for young fans, even claiming Grande was "possibly dying in front of us" before later deleting the remark.
Empire Street Productions' most expensive project at the Barbican
Empire Street Productions, the company producing the upcoming musical, was blindsided by the news on Sunday night. according to a source connected to the production who spoke to the Daily Mail, the decision was "mind-bending" and unfolded rapidly following the music video's release.
The production was intended to be a massive collaboration between Grande and actor Jonathan Bailey. The two previously starred in the Wicked films, which grossed over $750 million and earned ten Oscar nominations.
The 2027 rehearsal timeline and the sudden Sunday night exit
Rehearsals for the musical are not slated to begin until 2027, providing a significant buffer for the production team. However, the suddenness of the announcement has left the Barbican in a difficult position regarding its most expensive theatrical project to date.
The Barbican was officially informed of the withdrawal at 8 p.m . on Sunday. While the long lead time for rehearsals offers some relief, the production team expressed that they are "absolutely gutted" by the sudden change in plans.
Uncertainty surrounding the upcoming ten-date O2 Arena run
The immediate future of the Eternal Sunshine Tour remains a central question for fans and industry observers. While a spokesman told People magazine that Grande intends to take a break "after she completes the Eternal Sunshine Tour," her schedule remains demanding.
Uncertainty surrounds the upcoming ten-date run at London's O2 Arena, which is scheduled to begin in just two weeks. It remains unverified whether the intense scrutiny regarding her health and appearance will impact her ability to complete these high-profile performances.
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