Ariana Grande is reportedly set to spend at least one year out of the public eye as she waits for headlines to die down.
The 33-year-old singer has faced considerable media attention following the release of her latest music video. The award-winning artist unveiled the video for Petal, the titular track from her latest album, on July 31.
Fan Concerns and Official Statement
Numerous fans expressed concern after the video appeared to show Ariana's sternum visible through her skin. Many viewers said they were troubled by the footage and offered their well-wishes to the star.
The reaction has since prompted her representatives to make a public statement. In a statement, a spokesperson said, "Ariana will be taking a step back from visibility after she completes the Eternal Sunshine Tour."
"She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny."
Adding further comment to People Magazine, they said, "This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much."
Expert Insight on the Break
Following the announcement, celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius spoke exclusively to the Daily Express US regarding what Ariana might do during her time away from the limelight.
Describing the star's schedule as "relentless," Kayley said, "She's had an incredibly intense few years balancing the demands of Wicked alongside touring, and it's the kind of relentless schedule that can leave even the biggest stars needing time to properly switch off."
"I wouldn't be surprised if, for the next year at least, we see very little of her publicly."
Kayley went on to suggest that this is not a hiatus announcement ahead of her next major venture, but rather a "genuine opportunity for her to recharge, enjoy life outside of work and take a break from the constant pressure that comes with being one of the world's biggest pop stars."
Furthermore, it is believed that while Ariana may not be in the public eye herself, this does not necessarily mean she will distance herself from behind-the-scenes creative endeavours. Kayley suspects this will take the form of a passion project, such as writing, directing, or perhaps developing her own film or television project.
Impact of the Break
Crucially for Ariana, this decision will allow negative discourse surrounding her image to gradually fade.
"The timing of this break could also work in her favour following the criticism she's faced recently," the PR expert noted. "Time away from the spotlight naturally allows headlines to die down, giving the public conversation a chance to move on."
"If she returns with a fresh creative direction or unexpected project, it has the potential to shift the focus away from the criticism and onto what's next, while even introducing her to a whole new audience."
