‘Love Island USA’ star exits villa after resurfaced racial slur

Embattled reality star Cierra Ortega left the “Love Island USA” villa on July 6 after past social media posts resurfaced in which she used the slur “chinky” to describe her eyes. Producers initially cited a “personal situation” for her departure. Two days later, the 25-year-old contestant addressed the controversy directly in a video and written apology shared on Instagram on July 9.

“I am deeply, truly, honestly, so sorry,” Ortega said in her apology, directed at the Asian community. “I had no idea that the word held as much pain … or I never would have used it.” She explained that she learned of its offensiveness in 2024, immediately deleted the post and began educating herself and those around her. Ortega accepted the network’s decision, calling it “deserved punishment.”

Ortega also revealed that the backlash extended to her family, who received death threats and even visits from Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She urged fans to avoid retaliatory hate and assured them that she is committed to personal growth. “My actions and how I decide to live my life from here on out is going to speak louder than any apology ever could,” she said, promising to let her future conduct demonstrate her remorse and responsibility.