Ariana Grande closed the Eternal Sunshine Tour in London with tears, gratitude and a heartfelt farewell to the fans who accompanied her through the 41-show run.
The pop superstar performed the tour’s final concert at London’s O2 Arena on September 1, bringing an end to a journey that began in Oakland, California, on June 6 and traveled through the United States and Montreal before settling into a 10-show residency in London.
The final night became an emotional occasion for Grande, who took time during the concert to recognize the fans who had turned the tour into something deeply personal for her.
Grande became tearful as she reflected on the experience and expressed her appreciation for the audiences who showed up throughout the run. She also recognized the enthusiasm surrounding the concerts, from elaborate fan outfits and makeup to messages of support.
It was a fitting conclusion to a tour Grande has characterized as an especially meaningful chapter of her career. She previously reflected on being able to remain more present throughout this run than during her previous tour, making the connection with audiences particularly significant.
The London finale also marked the beginning of a very different period for the singer.
Grande previously revealed plans to step away from public-facing work and appearances after completing the Eternal Sunshine Tour. Her representative said the singer was looking forward to finishing the tour on a positive note before taking a well-earned break following a period of intense public scrutiny.
The decision has already resulted in at least one major change to Grande’s professional schedule. She will no longer appear in the planned West End revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George, which had been scheduled to open in London next year.
Her retreat from public visibility does not mean audiences have seen the last of her work, however. Grande is expected to appear alongside Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro in Focker-in-Law, the latest installment of the Meet the Parents film franchise, scheduled to reach theaters on November 25.
For now, though, the spotlight has dimmed on the Eternal Sunshine Tour.
After 41 concerts and a final stretch of 10 nights in London, Grande left the stage having made her feelings toward the people on the other side of the footlights unmistakably clear.
For an artist preparing to spend some time away from public view, it was a particularly emotional way to say goodbye.
