Love Island USA's Cierra leaves show after racism row

July 7, 2025

Cierra Ortega has exited Love Island USA season seven "for personal reasons" following the resurfacing of a 2015 social media post containing a derogatory term for Chinese people. Her parents issued a statement acknowledging accountability while condemning the extensive online hate campaign and threats directed at Cierra and her family. This departure follows a similar situation with contestant Yulissa Escobar, who also left the show after old videos of her using a racial slur resurfaced, for which she later apologized.

Who is affected

Cierra Ortega, a 25-year-old content creator from LA and Love Island USA contestant
Cierra's family, who received threats and cruel messages
Yulissa Escobar, another Love Island USA contestant who faced a similar situation
Love Island USA season seven production and remaining cast members
Viewers and fans of the show who have witnessed these departures

What action is being taken

Cierra has left the Love Island USA villa
Cierra's parents are managing her social media accounts while calling for compassion and patience
Peacock (the show's producer) is being contacted by BBC Newsbeat for comment
Yulissa has issued public apologies on Instagram following her departure

Why it matters

The incidents highlight how contestants' past social media content can impact their participation in reality television
It demonstrates the severe consequences of using derogatory language, even years after the fact
The situation raises questions about vetting processes for reality show contestants
It illustrates the intensity of public backlash and cancel culture in the social media era
Both cases show how reality TV participants can face overwhelming public scrutiny and harassment

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC