Um, We Need to Talk About Pete Davidson’s Page in Ariana Grande’s Burn Book
After weeks of social media hype-ups and promos, Ariana Grande finally released her new music video for “Thank U, Next” today—and the result was well worth the wait. The video, full of noughties-era rom-com references geared to the millennial crowd, features Grande starring as a number of iconic leading ladies, ranging from Legally Blonde’s Elle Woods to Mean Girls’s Regina George. And while the movie cues were fun indeed, one could look a little closer—press that pause button, folks!—and find a number of more subtle, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments. And we’re rounding up some of the best ones.
Of course, the Internet is already abuzz with Grande giving her ex Pete Davidson his very own page in her Mean Girls–style burn book. Her parting message for him? “Huuge,” which, if you use your imagination, is likely more of a compliment than a diss. She also wrote, “Sry I dipped, I love U always,” a reference to her calling off their much-discussed engagement earlier this year. (Grande also makes a reference to ex Big Sean in the book, writing, “Could still get it.”)
Other highlights include an appearance from Matt Bennett, her costar during her days on Victorious. (He stars in the Bring It On–inspired scene filled with flirtatious toothbrushing.) In another ode to the cheerleading film, Grande plays a mixtape in her bedroom and dances on her bed—only this time, the mixtape is for Ari from Ari, a nod to the single’s message about focusing on one’s self after a breakup. Moving right along: Look closer at what the UPS delivery guy is wearing in the Legally Blonde–esque nail salon, and you’ll see that his uniform has “BDE” on it, a reference to Davidson’s alleged “big dick energy,” and the resulting obsession that took over the Internet earlier this year.
Oh—and you thought Grande was the one getting married in the teaser trailer? Turns out it was a classic fake-out: In the video, she strategically plants a ponytail-wearing bride in the 13 Going on 30 scenes, whom Grande saunters right by.
Below, see more moments you might have missed.
