FACT CHECK: Viral photo of Ariana Grande is AI-manipulated

A photo circulating online claiming to show singer and actress Ariana Grande looking extremely thin with hollow cheeks has gone viral, sparking concern among social media users about her appearance.

However, a closer look reveals this image is not what it seems. Fact-checking shows that the viral photo has been manipulated using artificial intelligence tools.

According to analysis from an AI image detection tool, the picture is 99% likely to be AI-generated, with a 93% probability of face manipulation. The image is a digitally altered version of an original photograph taken in January 2025 at the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards.

The manipulation specifically targeted her face, making her cheeks appear significantly thinner compared to the authentic photo from the event. Crucially, the viral post did not include any label indicating that the image was AI-generated, potentially misleading viewers.

Concerns about the artist's weight have been discussed online since 2023. That same year, Grande posted a TikTok video directly addressing comments on her appearance. She explained that the body many considered her "healthy" was actually her unhealthiest state, when she was on antidepressants, drinking, and eating poorly.

In her video, she encouraged people to reconsider making comments about others' bodies, regardless of intent, emphasizing that there are "different ways to look healthy and beautiful" and urging a collective effort to reduce body commentary.

Ariana Grande, a significant figure in pop culture and music, has recently been seen starring as Glinda in the film "Wicked."

This incident highlights the growing issue of AI-manipulated images circulating online, particularly concerning public figures, and the importance of verifying visuals shared on social media platforms.