Ariana Grande impersonator Paige Niemann claims she felt 'led on' by singer's DM

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Ariana Grande impersonator Paige Niemann has opened up about her unexpected exchange with the pop star, revealing that she felt “led on” by their interaction. 

Niemann, who became famous for looking like Grande and copying her style in videos, said she thought the message could lead to a better connection.

The revelation gives a new look at the long-running story between the singer and her lookalike, whose impersonation videos have gained a lot of attention online.

Ariana Grande lookalike Paige Niemann opens up about pop star's unexpected message

Niemann has claimed that Grande’s direct message left her feeling “misled” after the singer reached out to her. The impersonator, who gained attention for recreating Grande’s looks, voice, and mannerisms online, explained that she had hoped the conversation would develop into something more supportive.

The interaction became an important moment in their ongoing story, as Grande had earlier noticed Niemann’s impersonation videos and sent her an encouraging message.

However, Niemann now says she felt differently about how the exchange unfolded. While speaking with TMZ, she said, "It was definitely an unexpected moment, and it reminded me that the public perception isn't always doesn't always reflect the full story."

"The point of showing the DM was to show the kindness and the love and the private message versus the more shady interactions that happened, um, afterwards on social media, and how that affected me at only 15 years old," she added. "Now, I think people are spreading their own narrative to try to make me look bad. They're not sharing the full messages between me and her that are shown in the series or at the end of her message."

"She tells me to have all the fun, you know, she never said to stop, or that it makes her uncomfortable, and you know, at the time, I didn't think I was doing anything wrong, and maybe I even felt let alone in some ways," Niemann shared.

Over the years, Niemann’s Ariana-inspired content has attracted significant attention, with many people comparing her appearance and style to the singer. The resemblance has made her one of the most recognizable celebrity impersonators online, while also bringing mixed reactions. 

What Ariana Grande wrote to Paige Niemann 

In Niemann’s new docuseries, she revealed the direct message she received from Grande, where the singer praised her while encouraging her to embrace her own identity instead of trying to mirror someone else’s appearance.

“I am flattered, and I am sure you're very sweet. But I just wanted you to know, I looked back a little ways on your page, and I think someone should tell you if they haven't today that you're very beautiful as yourself," the 'Wicked' star wrote. 

"Without all the make-up and trying to make your face look more similar to someone else's and whatnot. I had to say it because it is the truth. Always do what makes you happy, of course, but if I didn't say that to you, I'd regret it. You're beautiful as you are. Take care," she concluded.