Cierra Ortega reehas been removed from Love Island USA after an old social media post resurfaced in which she used a racial slur, prompting immediate action from producers.
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According to a production source speaking to The Sun, Ortega was “very upset” and “tried to apologise” after being informed she had to leave the villa.
“She didn’t want to leave the show and tried to apologise for what she did. We decided that apologies aren’t enough for topics like this,” the insider said.
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The controversial post, allegedly from Ortega’s Instagram Story, was widely shared by viewers demanding her removal. Producers acted swiftly, with the source explaining, “Cierra was against leaving the show at first, and thought an apology would be enough, but it doesn’t work like this.”
Her abrupt exit reportedly caused tension among the remaining contestants, with some demanding clarity and others asking producers to consider alternatives. However, production stood firm. “We can’t have a bad image and allow people to use such unacceptable words,” the insider added.
Although Ortega has yet to issue a personal statement, her parents took to her Instagram account to express regret and address the backlash. “We understand why people are upset, and we know accountability matters,” they wrote, while also condemning threats directed at her.
Read More: Cierra Ortega’s Parents Release Statement Following Love Island USA Exit Amid Racial Slur Backlash
This marks the second time this season that a contestant has been removed due to racism-related controversies, underscoring the show’s strict zero-tolerance policy.
Narrator Iain Stirling briefly addressed Ortega’s departure on air, noting she had left due to a “personal situation.”