Ariana Grande has publicly apologised to Elvira, the iconic Mistress of the Dark, after a recent revelation that their first encounter was not as pleasant as many would expect. Elvira, whose real name is Cassandra Peterson, claimed during a Q&A that meeting Grande was her worst celebrity experience. According to Elvira, the pop sensation bought 21 tickets for her show, but their backstage interaction was brief and somewhat chilly, as Grande refused a photo and left before the show even started.
The shocking account spread quickly, especially after Elvira shared it on social media. It wasn’t long before Grande addressed the situation herself, responding with a heartfelt apology. The singer explained that, at the time, she was dealing with anxiety and had an anxiety attack, making it difficult to engage fully. Grande clarified that she may not even remember the event accurately due to her mental state, offering her sincere apology if she unintentionally offended Elvira.
Grande’s public image has been shaped by the trauma of the Manchester bombing, and she referenced this in her apology, acknowledging how public crowds had affected her mental health. “If I’m misremembering this moment, I sincerely apologise,” she said, adding her gratitude to Elvira for being kind to her mother, even referring to the horror star as “our queen of Halloween.”
While some fans on social media defended Elvira’s right to share the story, others felt uncomfortable with the airing of grievances from years ago, suggesting it was merely an attempt to generate buzz. Yet, for many, this incident raises questions about how mental health can influence public behavior and the expectations placed on celebrities in personal encounters.
This incident is particularly important in the LGBTQ community, given that Elvira came out as queer in 2022, revealing a two-decade relationship with a woman. As a beloved figure in drag culture and an icon in the horror world, her voice resonates deeply with LGBTQ fans, who have seen her journey as reflective of their own. The impact of this story goes beyond celebrity gossip—it touches on how the queer community navigates fame, relationships, and the complexities of personal interactions.
Ultimately, Grande’s apology has been well-received by many, though it’s uncertain whether Elvira will publicly respond. What’s clear is that this incident highlights how even the most admired figures in LGBTQ culture, like Elvira, can find themselves navigating difficult celebrity interactions, showing the personal side of public personas.