Ariana Grande says decision to step back 'was not reactive or impulsive'
Ariana Grande addressed fans during her Chicago concert to clarify that her upcoming break from public life is a planned, empowered decision rather than an impulsive reaction to negativity. She emphasized the importance of setting boundaries after experiencing intense public scrutiny.
Why it matters
The statement highlights the growing conversation around mental health and the pressures of public life for high-profile celebrities.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Grande's tour arrives in London 15 August
Pop star Ariana Grande has spoken out for the first time since her publicist announced over the weekend that she would be "taking a step back from visibility" once her current tour ends next month.
Grande returned to the stage on Monday evening in Chicago for another stop on her Eternal Sunshine Tour, telling fans , external : "The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing. It is something that I had decided to plan... quietly, a long time ago."
Speaking at the first of a three-night run at the city's United Center, Grande said: "I heard my fans were worried negativity was ruining things for me but... that could not be more than the opposite.
"Boundaries need to be set, human beings do need a break sometimes."
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