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Ariana Grande and her former boyfriend Ricky Alvarez are said to be taking their time as they reconnect years after their breakup.

According to a report by PEOPLE, a source shared that the singer and her ex-boyfriend are approaching their renewed romance at a relaxed pace.

“Ariana has always considered Ricky a friend,” the source said. “She's not held ill will against him [since their split]. Ricky is dependable, trustworthy and very supportive. Ariana feels she can be herself around Ricky.”

The source added that Ariana appreciates Ricky's sense of humor, noting that the two share a similar wit and enjoy spending time together.

Despite the renewed spark, the insider said the pair are not rushing into anything serious.

“They're not jumping into anything serious right away, but Ari is happy to have him back in her life,” the source told PEOPLE.

Earlier this month, another source told the publication that Ricky spent the Fourth of July weekend in Florida with Ariana and her family while she continues her Eternal Sunshine tour.

The source described Ricky as a longtime friend and confidant whom Ariana deeply trusts.

“He has such great, positive energy, makes her laugh, and she enjoys spending time with him,” the source said.

Ariana and Ricky were previously in a relationship from 2015 to 2016. The pop star later referenced him in her hit song "Thank U, Next," which mentioned several of her former partners.

Fans recently noticed that Ariana has been changing the lyrics of the song during her concerts. In recent performances, she sang lines including “I know he's still got my back” and “We always find our way back,” sparking further speculation about the status of their relationship.

Neither Ariana nor Ricky has publicly commented on the reports.

Ariana Grande Alters 'Thank U, Next' Lyrics at N.Y.C Tour Stop After Being Spotted with Ex Ricky Alvarez https://t.co/YItnYa5gbA

— People (@people) July 14, 2026

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