Bill Maher’s Ariana Grande Weight Joke Draws Mixed Reactions After Singer Announces Public Break

Bill Maher’s joke about Ariana Grande’s weight on Friday’s episode of “Real Time” drew mixed reactions from the studio audience.

During his opening monologue, Maher joked about recently released UFO files, referencing a “stick-like figure with large eyes” before adding, “Oh, that was just an Ariana Grande video.” The remark received laughs and applause.

Maher then added, “Maybe that joke will make her eat something,” which was met with groans from the audience.

The comments come shortly after Grande announced plans to step back from public-facing work following her “Eternal Sunshine” tour. Her representative said the decision was partly prompted by “endless, ongoing public scrutiny.”

Grande addressed the decision during a performance in Chicago, saying it was not a “reactive or impulsive” choice. She said she had quietly planned the break long ago and made the decision from a “thoughtful and empowered place.”

Grande is expected to complete the tour before taking a break from public appearances and other public-facing work.