The TechQuilt
Cierra Ortega Exits Love Island USA Amid Racism Controversy
“Love Island USA” contestant Cierra Ortega has unexpectedly left the villa, with narrator Iain Stirling simply stating her departure was due to a “personal situation” during Sunday’s episode. However, multiple reports and social media buzz confirm that her exit is linked to the resurfacing of past racist comments.
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| Cierra Ortega’s “Love Island USA” Exit: Racism Allegations Explained |
What Happened?
Fans discovered old social media posts by the 25-year-old content creator, where she allegedly used derogatory anti-Asian slurs. These posts, dating back to 2015 and 2020, quickly ignited widespread backlash, leading to demands for her removal from the show. The controversy gained significant traction, with Ortega reportedly losing nearly 200,000 Instagram followers in just 48 hours.
This incident marks the second time this season that a “Love Island USA” contestant has been removed for past racist behavior, following Yulissa Escobar’s earlier exit for using a different racial slur. This has reignited debates about how reality TV shows vet their contestants and handle such serious allegations.
Show’s Response and Family Statement
While the show’s official statement remained vague, a production insider indicated that the language used by Ortega was “unacceptable” and they had “no choice but to act.” Host Ariana Madix also responded to criticism about the show’s silence, stating on Instagram, “Not silent. You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
Following Cierra’s departure, her parents released a statement on her Instagram Stories. They acknowledged the “hurt and the hate” but also pleaded for “compassion,” stating that Cierra had not yet processed the situation and was receiving threats and “cruel messages.” They emphasized that while they don’t justify her past actions, “no one deserves that kind of hate, no matter what mistake they’ve made.”
Cierra’s exit leaves her partner in the villa, Nic Vansteenberghe, single and navigating the upcoming “Casa Amor” twist. Former contestant Belle-A Walker, who is Asian-American and was previously coupled with Nic, publicly thanked the show for “taking a stand” against racism, highlighting the importance of addressing anti-Asian hate.
This controversy underscores the ongoing challenges faced by reality television in ensuring thorough background checks and promoting accountability for contestants’ past actions.
