Pop superstar Ariana Grande is mourning the death of her beloved grandmother, Marjorie “Nonna” Grande, who passed away peacefully at the age of 99. The heartbreaking news was announced on Tuesday, with Ariana and her family sharing a touching tribute to the matriarch fans around the world had come to adore.
“We Are Devastated”: A Family Tribute
In a statement shared via Ariana’s Instagram Stories, the family wrote:
“We are devastated to share that the beloved matriarch of our family has passed away. Marjorie (Nonna) Grande passed peacefully in her home and was surrounded by her family and loved ones for every moment of her last few weeks. We thank you for your love, support, and for respecting our privacy as we grieve and celebrate her beautiful, extraordinary life.”
Ariana’s mother, Joan Grande, also reposted the statement, while Ariana’s brother, Frankie Grande, shared his own emotional message:
“I love you endlessly, my sweet Nonna. I miss you more than words can hold. My heart is shattered, but I feel you watching over me… Thank you for every moment, every lesson, every hug, every belly laugh.”
A Special Bond with Ariana
Marjorie Grande wasn’t just a grandmother—she was a cherished figure in Ariana’s life and a familiar presence to fans. Affectionately called Nonna, she often appeared alongside Ariana at award shows, interviews, and even in her music.
In 2024, Nonna made music history when she became the oldest person ever to feature on the Billboard Hot 100, appearing at age 98 on Ariana’s song “Ordinary Things” from the Eternal Sunshinealbum. The track debuted at No. 55, cementing her place not just in family memories but in pop culture as well.
Ariana frequently expressed her admiration for Nonna. In a 2023 interview on The Drew Barrymore Show, she said:
“My grandparents were just such incredible human beings.”
A Life of Love, Family, and Laughter
Marjorie Grande’s love story also touched many. She met her late husband, Frank Grande, when she was just 11 years old. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 90. The couple’s bond, like her relationship with Ariana, was grounded in strength, tradition, and deep affection.
In March 2024, during a break from filming Wicked, Ariana took Nonna to see the movie in her hometown of Boca Raton. In a sweet Instagram caption about the moment, Ariana recalled Nonna’s reaction to one of the musical scenes:
“Thrilled to report when the sugar glider had her drum solo Nonna exclaimed loudly ‘oh I LOVE that.’”
And the love went both ways. In a video message that aired on The Drew Barrymore Show, Nonna proudly told Ariana:
“Your talent is marvelous. You make me so proud. I love you with all my heart.”
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A Legacy That Lives On
As Ariana and her family grieve, they’re also celebrating a woman who lived nearly a century with grace, humor, and an unforgettable spark. Nonna wasn’t just a proud grandmother—she was an icon in her own right, a symbol of unwavering love and generational support.
She may be gone, but Nonna’s voice, presence, and legacy live on—in Ariana’s music, in fans’ hearts, and in every memory she helped create.
