Ariana Grande remains one of the most searched and talked-about stars in the UK, blending chart-topping music, headline-making acting roles, and a powerful public voice. In 2024 and 2025, Grande’s name has dominated British Google searches, with over half a million monthly queries, placing her among the UK’s top ten most Googled singers. Her influence stretches far beyond music, as she continues to shape pop culture, social conversations, and even the UK entertainment landscape.
A Chart-Topping Career That Resonates in Britain
Grande’s UK chart history is nothing short of remarkable. Since her breakthrough hit “Problem” in 2014, she has collected seven UK Number 1 singles and five Number 1 albums. Her first UK Number 1 single marked a historic moment, being the first to top the charts after the Official Charts Company began including streaming data. Grande’s ability to blend pop, R&B, and dance elements has earned her 24 UK Top 10 singles and over 31 million certified units sold in the UK alone.
Her albums “Dangerous Woman,” “Sweetener,” and “Thank U, Next” all debuted at Number 1, with “Thank U, Next” breaking records for the most simultaneous Top 40 entries by a female artist in the UK. In 2019, she became the first female artist to replace herself at Number 1 on the UK singles chart, a feat previously only achieved by the Beatles.
Eternal Sunshine and a New Era
In March 2024, Grande released her seventh studio album, “Eternal Sunshine,” which debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard 200 and spawned several chart-topping singles, including “Yes, And?” and “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)”. The album’s success in the UK reaffirmed her status as a dominant force on both sides of the Atlantic.
Despite the album’s popularity, Grande confirmed she would not be touring in 2025, citing her growing passion for acting and her commitment to new artistic ventures. “Music will always be a part of my life, but I don’t see it coming anytime soon,” she told Variety, adding that acting “is feeling like home right now”. This decision has only heightened anticipation for her next move, especially among British fans who have long supported her sold-out UK arena shows.
Wicked: A West End Dream Realised
Grande’s acting career has taken centre stage with her role as Glinda in the much-anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.” The casting was initially met with scepticism, but Grande’s dedication to the role won over critics and audiences alike. She auditioned three times for the part, determined to prove she was more than just a pop star. “Glinda requires so much. I have to be able to earn this and I don’t want it unless I’ve earned it,” Grande explained, highlighting her commitment to the craft.
Her performance in “Wicked” has earned her a 2025 Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe nod, with UK critics praising her ability to “disappear into the character” and bring new depth to the role. The film’s London premiere was a star-studded affair, further cementing Grande’s connection to the UK’s vibrant theatre scene. Following her show-stopping duet of “Defying Gravity” at the 2025 Oscars, the song soared back up the UK charts, reflecting the British public’s renewed fascination with both the musical and Grande herself.
Manchester: Tragedy, Resilience, and Community
No account of Ariana Grande’s impact in the UK is complete without acknowledging the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. The bombing, which killed 22 people at the end of Grande’s concert, remains one of the most tragic events in recent British history. Grande’s response was widely praised: she organised the One Love Manchester benefit concert less than two weeks later, raising millions for victims and their families. Her return to Manchester for the city’s Pride festival and her ongoing support for the community have made her a figure of resilience and compassion in the UK.
Grande has spoken openly about the lasting impact of the attack, sharing messages of solidarity with survivors and the families of victims. “Not a day goes by that this doesn’t affect you and all of us still,” she wrote ahead of the third anniversary, echoing the sentiments of many in Manchester and across the country.
Beyond Music: Business, Activism, and Influence
Grande’s influence extends beyond the stage and screen. Her beauty brand, R.E.M. Beauty has become a major success, with her fragrance line generating over $1 billion in retail sales globally. She remains one of the most followed celebrities on social media, engaging with fans and often using her platform to speak out on issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.
This activism has sometimes sparked controversy, especially in the US, but her willingness to use her voice resonates with many in the UK, where public figures are increasingly expected to take a stand on key issues. Grande’s outspoken support for equality and justice has only strengthened her bond with British fans, who value authenticity and courage in their icons.
The Future: What’s Next for Ariana Grande?
As 2025 unfolds, Ariana Grande stands at a crossroads. Her decision to step back from touring in favour of acting marks a new chapter, but her music continues to chart in the UK, and her cultural influence shows no sign of waning. With her acclaimed role in “Wicked,” her ongoing business ventures, and her enduring commitment to her fans, Grande remains a defining figure in British pop culture.
Whether she’s topping the charts, lighting up the West End, or lending her voice to causes that matter, Ariana Grande’s story is far from over. For her millions of UK fans, she is not just a superstar – she is a symbol of resilience, reinvention, and the unbreakable bond between artist and audience.
Conclusion:
Ariana Grande remains a powerful and influential figure in the UK, celebrated for her musical talent, acting achievements, and genuine connection with fans. Her resilience, creativity, and commitment to important causes ensure she continues to inspire millions. As her career evolves, Grande’s legacy as a pop icon and cultural force in Britain is set to endure for years to come.
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