Cierra Ortega Exits “Love Island USA” Amid Controversy
LOS ANGELES — Cierra Ortega, a contestant on this summer’s season of “Love Island USA,” has left the show just a week before the finale. The announcement was made during Sunday’s episode, where the show’s narrator, Iain Stirling, mentioned her departure was due to a personal situation.
This news follows an outcry from fans after old social media posts from Ortega emerged, containing offensive language directed at Asian individuals. Ortega is the second contestant this season to depart amidst similar controversy, as Yulissa Escobar also left earlier due to resurfacing clips of her using inappropriate language.
In response to Ortega’s exit, her family asked for compassion and understanding from the public. They stated on Instagram that Cierra needs time to process the situation and expressed confidence in her ability to return with honesty and grace.
Her family and friends have faced threats and cruel messages online, highlighting that everyone deserves decency, regardless of past mistakes.
“Love Island USA” is based on a popular U.K. series and is currently in its seventh season, featuring young singles in a villa in Fiji with the aim of forming romantic connections. Contestants are regularly eliminated as stronger couples emerge, with the winning pair receiving a cash prize of $100,000.
The show takes measures to prevent cyberbullying, urging fans to treat contestants with respect. Host Ariana Madix has recently spoken out against online harassment, urging fans to stop doxxing and targeting participants with hateful messages.
Ortega joined the villa at the end of the first episode and quickly formed a partnership with Nic Vansteenberghe, making them one of the more stable couples. Following her exit, Vansteenberghe expressed feelings of confusion about his future on the show.
Another contestant, Belle-A Walker, shared her disappointment on social media, commending the show’s producers for taking a firm stance against racism. Walker, who is Asian American, emphasized the importance of addressing anti-Asian hate and hopes this incident will bring more awareness to the issue.
