Cierra Ortega leaves ‘Love Island’ amid controversy over resurfaced racist social media posts.

Cierra Ortega, a participant from Season 7 of the reality television show “Love Island USA,” has abruptly exited the program following the resurfacing of past social media posts in which she used a racial slur aimed at East Asian individuals. The announcement was made by Peacock just one week before the season finale, indicating that Ortega, 25, would be leaving the villa due to a “personal situation.” This development leaves fellow contestant Nic Vansteenberghe single as the series approaches its conclusion.

Shortly after the announcement, previously shared posts from Ortega reemerged on various social media platforms. These posts include multiple instances where she used the racial slur, with some examples dating as recently as 2023. In one specific instance, Ortega referenced her use of Botox and made a derogatory joke concerning her physical appearance.

While Ortega has been cut off from social media access during the filming of “Love Island,” her parents took to her Instagram account to release a statement, describing the preceding week as “one of the most painful weeks of our lives.” They did not attempt to justify or dismiss the resurfaced content, acknowledging that many are upset and emphasizing the importance of accountability. However, they also expressed their concern over the extreme backlash Ortega has faced online, which has included threats and cruel messages directed toward her family, friends, and supporters.

The statement requested compassion and humanity from the public, stressing that no one deserves to be treated with such animosity, regardless of past mistakes. Ortega’s family urged for understanding, indicating that she plans to address the situation personally when she feels ready.

In light of the fallout from the incident, Ortega has reportedly lost approximately 200,000 followers across her social media platforms. Furthermore, a petition has garnered over 17,000 signatures, advocating for her removal from the show.

This is not the first incident of a contestant leaving “Love Island USA” due to racial slurs this season. Earlier, fellow contestant Yulissa Escobar also exited after using the N-word during podcast appearances. Escobar issued a public apology, admitting to using the term without fully comprehending its historical weight and the pain it carries.

“Love Island USA” airs daily on Peacock, except for Wednesdays, continuing to attract audiences despite the controversies that have unfolded this season.

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