Ethan Slater has quickly risen from a talented Broadway performer to one of the entertainment industry’s most talked-about stars. Best known for his award-winning performance as SpongeBob SquarePants on Broadway and his highly publicized relationship with Ariana Grande, Slater continues to grow his presence in film, television, and theater. This in-depth biography explores his life, career, controversies, and what’s next for the rising actor.
Ethan Slater Biography
Ethan Samuel Slater was born on June 2, 1992, in Washington, D.C., and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. He developed an early passion for theater and later attended Vassar College, graduating in 2014. His mix of vocal talent, comedic timing, and stage charisma made him a standout performer from a young age.
Slater’s big break came at age 24 when he was cast as SpongeBob SquarePants in the Broadway musical, a role that transformed him from a rising theater kid into a Tony-nominated star.
Career
Ethan Slater’s career took off when he starred in “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical” (2017). His performance earned him:
- A Tony Award nomination
- A Drama Desk Award
- A Theatre World Award
- Widespread acclaim for his physicality, vocals, and comedic brilliance
After his Broadway success, Slater expanded into film and television, appearing in:
- “Fosse/Verdon” (2019)
- “Law & Order: SVU”
- “POSE”
His career reached new global attention when he was cast in “Wicked: Part One” (2024), starring as Boq alongside Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
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Ethan Slater Movies
Some notable film and TV credits include:
- Wicked: Part One (2024) – Boq
- The Man Behind the Camera (2021)
- Fosse/Verdon (2019) – Television
- Law & Order: SVU – Guest role
- Instinct – Guest role
Slater is also set to appear in Wicked: Part Two (2025), expanding his film footprint even further.
Ethan Slater Net Worth
As of 2025, Ethan Slater’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $2 million.
His earnings come from:
- Broadway performances
- Film and television roles
- Music and voice work
- Touring and stage productions
His involvement in the Wicked franchise is expected to significantly increase his long-term earnings.
Family
Ethan Slater was raised in a Jewish family alongside his siblings. His father passed away when he was young, a loss that deeply shaped his emotional connection to storytelling and performance.
Slater keeps most family details private, but he has described his family as supportive of his artistic path.
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Ethan Slater and Lilly Jay
Ethan Slater married Lilly Jay, his high-school sweetheart, in 2018. The couple later welcomed a son in 2022.
However, their relationship faced challenges in 2023 when Slater’s romance with Ariana Grande became public. Slater and Jay separated that same year, with Jay expressing frustration about the sudden media attention. Despite the split, the two co-parent their child.
Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande
Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande met while filming “Wicked” in 2022. Their relationship became public in mid-2023 after both had separated from their previous partners.
The pair have since kept their romance private, though they have appeared together at events supporting the Wicked film and are believed to still be together.
Their relationship sparked widespread online discussion and remains one of the most talked-about celebrity unions of recent years.
Controversies
Slater’s biggest public controversy emerged in 2023 following his relationship with Ariana Grande.
Key points include:
- Public scrutiny over the timing of his separation from Lilly Jay
- Online criticism from fans who felt the relationship overlapped
- Media attention surrounding his marriage and new relationship
Slater has avoided public confrontation, choosing to stay quiet as the media frenzy subsided.
Ethan Slater Age
He is 33 years old (born June 2, 1992).
Ethan Slater Now
In 2025, Ethan Slater is experiencing a major career upswing:
- Promoting Wicked: Part One
- Filming Wicked: Part Two
- Working on new stage and screen projects
- Maintaining a low-profile relationship with Ariana Grande
- Continued recognition as one of Broadway’s most talented young stars
His transition from stage standout to Hollywood actor is well underway.
Conclusion
Ethan Slater’s rise from a young performer in Maryland to a globally recognized actor is a testament to his talent and versatility. With major film roles, respected Broadway history, and a growing public profile, he is shaping a long-lasting career in entertainment. As he continues to expand his work beyond the stage, Slater remains one of the most compelling performers of his generation.
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