“We are devastated”: Marjorie ‘Nonna’ big, grandmother of Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande’s family is going through a moment of deep sadness after the death of Marjorie ‘Nonna’ Grande, the singer’s maternal grandmother, who He died on Tuesday, June 17 at 99.
The news was confirmed by the artist through a statement shared on social networks, in which she expressed her pain and gratitude for her grandmother’s love legacy.
“We are devastated to share that the beloved matriarch of our family has died,” said the singer. Ariana said that her grandmother died quietly at home, accompanied by her family during her last days.
“It was surrounded by love at all times. We thank you for your support and respect while we cry and celebrate its beautiful and extraordinary life,” he added.
The singer’s relationship with her grandmother had
Marjorie Grande, affectionately known as ‘Nonna’, was a fundamental figure in Ariana’s personal and professional life. Born in a very different time, she lived almost a century full of history, love and family dedication.
She met her husband, Frank Grande, when both were 11 years old. Years later, after their return from military service, they married and formed a family with two daughters: Joan, mother of Ariana and Frankie Grande, and Judy, mother of Lani.
‘Nonna’ had a decisive role in the discovery of Ariana’s artistic talent. It was she who encouraged her to audition for the first timefor the work Annie, when she was just a girl. “I said: Ariana could do that. He auditioned and became Annie,” Marjorie recalled in an interview for Today in 2014.
Since then, her granddaughter began a path that would lead her to become one of the most recognized voices of world pop.
Beyond the family, ‘Nonna’ became a usual presence in Ariana’s public life. He frequently attended his events, award ceremonies and public appearances, consolidating himself as an unconditional support symbol.
One of his last appearances occurred in November 2024, when he accompanied Ariana to a special Wicked projection in Boca Mouse, Florida, the artist’s hometown. The occasion was especially significant, because the singer shared that moment not only with her grandmother, but also with her current partner, actor Ethan Slater.
His grandmother’s influence was also recorded in Ariana Grande’s discography. In March 2024, with the launch of the Eternal Album Sunshine, Marjorie became the oldest person to appear in the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to his participation in the song ‘Ordinary Things’.
On that subject, Ariana asks: “How can I know if I am in the right relationship?”, To which your grandmother responds with a wise warning: “Never go to sleep without kissing good night. That is the worst thing you can do. And if you can’t do it, you are not in the right place. Get out of there.”
Marjorie’s voice also appears in previous songs such as ‘Daydreamin’ and ‘Bloodline’, consolidating her footprint in her granddaughter’s musical work.
Marjorie ‘Nonna’ Grande was not only a family pillar, but also an endearing figure for Ariana fans. Her legacy lives not only in the memories of those who knew her, but also in music, values and love words she shared with millions of people through the art of her granddaughter.
“We cry, we honor you and celebrate your life. Thank you for everything, Nonna.” Ariana wrote when he said goodbye.
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