Pop star Ariana Grande has spoken out for the first time since her publicist announced that she would be taking a "step back from visibility" once her current tour ends next month. Speaking in Chicago, Grande stated that her decision to take a break was not a reactive or impulsive move but a deliberate one made long ago. She also addressed concerns about her health and said her current touring was "one of the most healing, beautiful, correct and special experiences" of her life. This break also means she will not be participating in a production of Stephen Sondheim's Sunday in the Park with George at the Barbican in London next year.