How old is Joan Grande? Ariana Grande reveals her mother wants her ashes scattered at Disneyland

Ariana Grande has shared a unique request from her mother, Joan Grande, involving one of the most iconic landmarks in Walt Disney World. On November 7, 2024, during an appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast with Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, Ariana revealed that Joan frequently brings up her wish for her ashes to be scattered over Cinderella Castle in Florida, a request she admits makes her uncomfortable.

Joan, who is 67 years old, has expressed this desire to Ariana and her brother Frankie Grande during their trips to Disney. Ariana recalled the moments when Joan brings it up, saying:

"When it comes to Florida, when it comes to the Disney in Florida, first of all, we get Cinderella’s Castle. Which is, you know, also a landmark."

She further mentioned:

"My mom tells us too often that she wants her ashes sprinkled over it. And I’m like, ‘Mom, it’s Christmas. Do we have to talk about this right now?’ And she’s like, ‘Yeah. You have to make sure that happens. I’m like, ‘Mom, I don’t wanna make sure that that happens.'"

Despite this, it is important to note that Disney does not permit the scattering of ashes at their parks.

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Joan Grande's legacy and relationship with Ariana Grande

Joan has been a constant pillar of support throughout Ariana’s rise to fame. Ariana Grande, born and raised in Boca Raton, Florida, has maintained a strong bond with her mother, even though her parents, Joan and Ed Butera, separated when she was young. Ariana and her father reconciled years later, as evidenced by their shared appearance at the 2020 Grammy Awards.

Joan’s role in Ariana Grande’s life has been pivotal. She discovered Ariana's musical talents at a young age, reportedly when Ariana, at just 3 years old, hit a high note while listening to NSYNC in the car.

Beyond her role as Ariana's mother, Joan is a successful businesswoman, serving as the president and CEO of Hose-McCann Communications, a company specializing in communications equipment for the marine industry.

She also collaborates with Frankie through their entertainment company, Diamond Dog Entertainment, which focuses on nurturing talent and producing creative projects like the film Summoning Sylvia and the musical Titanique.

Despite her busy professional life, Joan prioritizes her family, supporting Ariana through challenges like the tragic Manchester bombing in 2017. Joan was present at Ariana’s concert when the attack occurred and later joined her in organizing the One Love Manchester benefit concert.

Ariana Grande and Frankie have always been close, with Joan playing an active role in their lives. She frequently expresses her love on social media for both of her children. Joan was particularly vocal about her pride when Ariana landed the role of Glinda in Wicked, a part the singer had dreamed of playing for years.

Joan regularly attends red carpet events with her daughter and expresses admiration for Ariana’s success, as seen in her posts celebrating Ariana Grande’s achievements, like winning awards and performing at major events.