Ariana Grande got emotional while performing her new song “Thank U, Next” on the newest episode of Ellen. The 24-year-old sang the tune, which expresses her gratitude for all her ex-boyfriends, in stiletto heels. They proved a little dangerous when she tripped on stage! Watch the video above to a taste of the tearful performance and to see her stumble.
The “God Is A Woman” singer released the song last Saturday, November 3. Fans thought it would be a diss track aimed at ex-fiancé Pete Davidson, but it’s something more beautiful and kind than that. Instead, she thanks Pete and her other exes — Big Sean, Ricky Alvarez, and the late Mac Miller — for all that they taught her about herself. It’s an ode to self-love.
Her Ellen performance was her first since the song came out. It was an homage to the last scene in First Wives Club, during which Diane Keaton, Bette Middler, and Goldie Hawn triumphantly sing “You Don’t Own Me.” The “Side to Side” singer shared screenshots of the movie on her Instagram.
But that’s actually where the trouble started. Like Diane in the film, Ariana jumped on a chair. When she came down, she stumbled and fell, but quickly caught herself. “Oh my God,” she said softly. She laughed a bit going into the next verse.
Later in the song, she sang, “One day I’ll walk down the aisle / Holding hands with my mama / I’ll be thanking my dad / ‘Cause she grew from the drama.” At this part, she teared up, her voice choking. Behind her was a prop wedding cake, reminding fans (and Ari) of the wedding that never was.
At the end, she and her backup dancers put on their white coats and ran into the audience. And because work never stops, Ariana released the video for her song Breathin’ today, too.
What do you think of Ariana’s performance of “Thank U, Next”? Sound off in the comments!
