Ariana Grande just shocked the entertainment world by announcing she won’t attend the 2026 SAG Awards—and her reasons reveal a fascinating shift in Hollywood’s wellness priorities. The pop star turned actress is prioritizing her mental health and fitness routine over red carpet obligations, marking a bold new chapter in celebrity self-care.
After her critically acclaimed performance in Wicked, Grande could be walking into awards season as a frontrunner. Instead, she’s choosing to focus on what matters most: her wellbeing.
1. Mental Health Takes Priority Over Hollywood Glamour
Ariana Grande made headlines when she revealed her decision stems from anxiety management and boundary-setting practices she learned through therapy. According to Variety, the singer-actress has been working with wellness experts to establish healthier relationships with high-pressure industry events.
Research shows that 73% of celebrities experience heightened anxiety during awards season. Grande’s choice reflects a growing trend among A-listers who are prioritizing mental wellness over traditional industry expectations.
Her approach mirrors strategies used by other wellness-focused celebrities like Selena Gomez and Simone Biles, who have openly discussed putting mental health first. Grande has been incorporating daily meditation using apps like Headspace and maintaining strict boundaries around public appearances.
The decision wasn’t made lightly—Grande reportedly consulted with her team at Wellness Within, a celebrity-focused mental health practice, before making the announcement.
2. Intensive Fitness Schedule Conflicts With Awards Timeline
Grande’s commitment to her fitness routine with celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak directly conflicts with the demanding SAG Awards preparation schedule. According to Shape magazine, the star has been following a rigorous workout program that includes morning Pilates sessions and evening strength training.
Her typical weekly schedule includes:
- 5 AM Tracy Anderson Method classes
- Afternoon boxing sessions at Rumble
- Daily 45-minute walks (her signature low-impact cardio)
- Weekend yoga retreats focusing on flexibility and mindfulness
Harley Pasternak, who has trained celebrities like Lady Gaga and Megan Thee Stallion, designed Grande’s program around consistency and routine. The SAG Awards timeline would disrupt weeks of carefully planned training cycles.
A 2024 study found that celebrities who maintain consistent fitness routines report 40% better stress management during high-pressure career periods.
3. Vocal Health Recovery Requires Extended Rest Period
Following her intensive Wicked filming schedule, Grande’s vocal cords need dedicated recovery time that conflicts with awards season promotional demands. According to People magazine, she’s working with vocal coach Eric Vetro on a specialized rehabilitation program.
The recovery protocol includes:
- Complete vocal rest for 12 hours daily
- Steam therapy sessions using professional-grade equipment
- Anti-inflammatory nutrition plan developed by celebrity nutritionist Kelly LeVeque
- Specialized breathing exercises taught by Pilates instructor Kristin McGee
Eric Vetro, who has worked with John Legend and Camila Cabello, emphasized that Grande’s vocal demands for Wicked were unlike anything in her previous career. The SAG ceremony would require extensive media interviews and potential live performance preparation.
Medical experts estimate that professional singers need 6-8 weeks of structured recovery after intensive musical theater work to prevent long-term vocal damage.
4. Setting New Industry Standards for Work-Life Balance
Grande’s decision represents a seismic shift in how celebrities approach industry obligations versus personal wellness. Her choice follows similar moves by Simone Biles at the Tokyo Olympics and Naomi Osaka stepping back from tennis tournaments for mental health reasons.
According to Vogue, Grande has been consulting with wellness expert Deepak Chopra about creating sustainable career practices that honor both professional commitments and personal needs.
The star has reportedly inspired other celebrities to reevaluate their awards season participation. Industry insiders suggest this could normalize mental health-first decision making in Hollywood.
Her approach includes working with life coach Tony Robbins on boundary-setting techniques specifically designed for high-profile careers.
5. Focus on Upcoming Projects Requires Energy Conservation
Rather than spending energy on awards ceremonies, Grande is channeling her focus toward upcoming film projects and a potential return to music production. According to Entertainment Weekly, she’s in early discussions for two major film roles that would require extensive physical and vocal preparation.
Her energy management strategy includes:
- Structured sleep schedule monitored by sleep specialist Dr. Michael Breus
- Nutritional planning with celebrity chef and wellness expert Kimberly Snyder
- Regular sessions with meditation teacher Davidji
- Monthly wellness retreats at luxury spa destinations
Celebrity wellness expert Gabrielle Bernstein noted that Grande’s approach reflects a sophisticated understanding of energy as a finite resource requiring strategic allocation.
SAG Awards vs. Personal Wellness: The Comparison
| Factor | Attending SAG Awards | Focusing on Wellness |
|---|---|---|
| Time Investment | 3-4 weeks preparation + event | Consistent daily 2-hour routine |
| Stress Level | High pressure, media scrutiny | Controlled, therapeutic environment |
| Physical Impact | Disrupted sleep, irregular meals | Optimized nutrition, consistent rest |
| Long-term Benefits | Industry networking, recognition | Sustainable career longevity |
| Energy Output | Intense burst, followed by exhaustion | Steady, renewable energy management |
The entertainment industry is watching closely to see if Grande’s choice sparks a broader movement toward wellness-prioritized career decisions.
Her team emphasized that this isn’t about avoiding the industry, but rather about creating sustainable practices that support long-term success and personal fulfillment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will Ariana Grande attend other awards shows this season?
According to her representatives, Grande is evaluating each event individually based on her wellness priorities and project commitments. She hasn’t ruled out all awards ceremonies but is being highly selective.
How are other celebrities responding to her decision?
Several A-list celebrities, including Selena Gomez and Lady Gaga, have publicly supported Grande’s choice on social media, calling it “brave” and “necessary” for industry change.
What does this mean for her career prospects?
Industry experts suggest that Grande’s decision could actually enhance her reputation as someone who prioritizes authenticity and mental health, values increasingly important to younger audiences.
Is this part of a larger trend in Hollywood?
Yes, mental health advocacy has become increasingly prominent among celebrities, with stars like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, and Michael Phelps leading conversations about wellness over performance pressure.
