Broadway star and full-time cinnamon roll Ethan Slater just responded to the bullies who couldn’t handle his freckled fabulousness.
At the premiere of his latest project, Wicked, on Saturday (November 9), the 32-year-old took a break from his wizardly duties to get real about the schoolyard taunts he once endured. Spoiler alert: he’s got way more class and patience than most of us would have in his shoes (or ruby slippers).
So, what did Variety ask him? They went straight for the feels: what would Ethan say now to the people who used to call him “freckle face” and roast his ginger hair like it was a Thanksgiving turkey? Most of us would’ve whipped out a quick “check out my paycheck, losers,” but not Ethan.
Instead, he took the moral high ground, responding, “I extend a hand to you, and I know that hurt people hurt people.” Translation? “I’m the bigger person here… but also, maybe you should’ve grown a red beard like this!” Yes, Ethan couldn’t resist a light roast of his own – because really, what’s more glorious than a red beard?
And, as if his life didn’t already read like a fanfiction dream, he’s dating none other than Wicked co-star and pop royalty Ariana Grande. The two were even spotted looking cozy recently. To all the freckle-bashing bullies out there: Ethan’s doing just fine, thank you, and living out a Broadway-fueled fairytale that’s every bit as magical as Wicked itself.
Ethan Slater shares a message for anyone who used to tease him for having red hair and freckles growing up. https://t.co/5eTUUcWE5W pic.twitter.com/9PUtscmqTa
— Variety (@Variety) November 10, 2024