Global superstar Ariana Grande is currently dominating the box office as Glinda in Wicked, but her family tree is just as full of star power. While many fans know her famous older brother, their relationship is a dynamic story of shared passion, public struggles, and fierce support.
Here is the ultimate breakdown of Ariana Grande’s siblings: the one and only Frankie Grande.
The Only Sibling: Meet Frankie J. Grande
Ariana Grande has one sibling, an older half-brother named Frankie J. Grande. He is an entertainer, actor, singer, and producer in his own right, known for his infectious energy and vibrant personality.
Their mother, Joan Grande, had Frankie from her first relationship with Victor Marchione, which began in 1983. Ten years later, she welcomed Ariana with her second husband, Edward Butera. This difference in fathers makes them half-siblings, yet their bond is closer than that of most full siblings.
Frankie, 42, and Ariana, 32, grew up together with a shared love for the performing arts, a passion that clearly foreshadowed both of their successful careers.
A Life in the Spotlight: Frankie’s Career Today
Frankie Grande is not just “Ariana Grande’s brother.” He carved out a notable career, especially in the world of theater and reality television.
Broadway and Performance
Frankie first broke into the scene on Broadway, starring in major productions such as Mamma Mia! and Rock of Ages. More recently, he took on the iconic lead role of Frank-N-Furter in a production of The Rocky Horror Show in October 2023. This background in musical theatre provided a powerful foundation for his artistic pursuits.
Television and Producer Work
He gained widespread recognition among reality TV fans by appearing on two seasons of Big Brother: the US version in 2014 and Celebrity Big Brother in the UK in 2016. Furthermore, he works as a producer, notably with his mother, Joan Grande, under their company, Diamond Dog Entertainment, with projects like the film Summoning Sylvia. In 2025, he released his pop debut album, Hotel Rock Bottom, a deeply personal project that explores his journey to sobriety.
The Power of the Grande Sibling Bond
The connection between Ariana and Frankie is characterized by unwavering mutual support, often visible on social media and at major public events. The age gap of ten years has never been a barrier to their profound closeness.
Frankie consistently supports his sister’s career, most recently showering her with love during the release of the Wicked film adaptation. He once emotionally recalled to E! News how they both “burst into tears” when she booked the coveted role of Glinda, calling it a lifelong dream.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Their bond became even stronger after a challenging period following the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack. Frankie turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with the trauma, causing a temporary strain in the family. However, this devastating event became an unexpected turning point.
Ariana selflessly supported him through his sobriety journey. Frankie publicly credited her strength for giving him the courage to seek help. He wrote in an essay that their relationship grew even closer and stronger in the years since he became sober, proving they are each other’s rock through thick and thin.
Personal Life and Activism
Outside of entertainment, Frankie is a devoted advocate and a dedicated philanthropist.
He serves as a board member for GLAAD, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ advocacy and cultural change. Additionally, he dedicates time to organizations like the Los Angeles LGBT Center and the performing arts education charity Broadway in South Africa, which he co-founded.
In a “galactic” themed ceremony held at the family’s Boca Raton home on May 4, 2022, Frankie married model and actor Hale Leon. The entire Grande family, including Ariana, celebrated their union with immense joy. Ariana penned a heartfelt message for the couple, wishing the “two very incredible and cosmically destined souls” endless happiness.
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CONCLUSION
Ultimately, the story of Ariana Grande’s siblings? is a testament to an extraordinarily close family bond. While the global spotlight shines fiercely on Ariana, her half-brother Frankie Grande clearly carves out his own path in entertainment and activism. Despite the decade age gap, different fathers, and public struggles, they continue to function as a powerful, inseparable unit, demonstrating that unconditional sibling support is the real key to a successful, star-studded life.
