Love Island USA announced that contestant Cierra Ortega has left Season 7 following the resurfacing of racist social media posts.
The reality dating show confirmed Ortega’s departure after screenshots of problematic posts began circulating online. The 23-year-old from California had entered the villa during the show’s current season.
Ortega’s parents released a public statement addressing the controversy.
“We are deeply disappointed and hurt by the posts that have resurfaced from Cierra’s past. These posts do not reflect the values we raised her with or the person she is today,” the statement read.
The family acknowledged the serious nature of the content. They said Ortega takes full responsibility for her past actions and understands the impact of her words.
“Cierra is committed to learning from this experience and doing the work necessary to grow as a person. She sincerely apologizes to anyone who was hurt by these posts.”
The statement emphasized that the posts were made several years ago when Ortega was younger. Her parents said she’s undergone significant personal growth since then.
Love Island USA producers have not yet commented on whether they’ll address Ortega’s departure on the show. The series typically films several days ahead of broadcast, meaning her exit may not appear immediately on aired episodes.
This marks another incident where reality TV contestants have faced consequences for past social media activity. Several other Love Island contestants across different seasons have left or been removed due to similar controversies.
The show continues with its remaining contestants as they navigate the villa’s romantic connections and challenges. Season 7 is currently airing new episodes regularly on its network.
Ortega had appeared in only a handful of episodes before her departure. She hadn’t yet formed any strong romantic connections with fellow islanders.