Ethan Slater, star of Wicked, reveals why he avoids discussing his son publicly, prioritizing his child’s autonomy over fame.
Ethan Slater, the 33-year-old star of Wicked, has shared a rare glimpse into his personal life, explaining why he chooses to keep his son out of the public eye. In a candid conversation on Gianmarco Soresi’s podcast The Downside, Slater emphasized his commitment to letting his son “meet the world on his own terms.”
Slater, who shares his son with ex-wife Lilly Jay, has consistently avoided discussing his child in interviews, a decision he reiterated in his recent comments. “I try not to tell stories about my son because I want to let him meet the world and let the world meet him on his own terms,” he explained. “So I don’t tell stories or anecdotes.”
This philosophy aligns with his earlier remarks in a GQ cover story, where he described fatherhood as “the best thing in the world” while acknowledging the challenges of co-parenting. “There’s nothing I want to do more than just show you pictures and talk about him because he’s the best and the light of my life,” he admitted. “But I also want to give him the opportunity to meet the world on his own terms… to meet the world in an analog way and not through my words.”
The Balance of Fame and Fatherhood
Slater’s approach to parenting reflects a growing trend among celebrities who prioritize their children’s privacy. His decision is particularly notable given his high-profile relationship with Ariana Grande, his Wicked co-star, which began in 2023 shortly after his divorce from Jay. The couple’s relationship has been described as “the real deal” by insiders, with sources telling People that they are “incredibly supportive of each other’s careers.”
Despite the media attention surrounding his relationship with Grande, Slater remains focused on shielding his son from unnecessary scrutiny. His ex-wife, Lilly Jay, has also spoken about their co-parenting dynamic, emphasizing their shared commitment to their child. In a December 2024 essay for The Cut, Jay wrote, “While our partnership has changed, our parenthood has not. Both of us fiercely love our son 100% of the time, regardless of how our parenting time is divided.”
Why This Matters
Slater’s stance highlights the complexities of celebrity parenting, where public interest often clashes with personal boundaries. By choosing to keep his son’s life private, he sets an example for other high-profile figures navigating similar challenges. His comments also underscore the importance of allowing children to develop their identities away from the pressures of fame.
For fans of Wicked and Slater’s work, this insight offers a deeper understanding of the actor’s values. It’s a reminder that behind the glamour of Hollywood, many stars are simply parents trying to do what’s best for their children.
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