Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 10, 2025 · Entertainment

Cierra Ortega Breaks Silence: Apology and Accountability After 'Love Island USA' Exit

Former 'Love Island USA' contestant Cierra Ortega apologized Wednesday for resurfaced posts where she used a racial slur against Asian people

SHOCKING EXCLUSIVE: Love Island USA's Cierra Ortega Issues Groveling Apology for Racist Slur

The drama just got real on Love Island USA! Former contestant Cierra Ortega has been forced to eat her words after a series of old social media posts resurfaced, featuring the 22-year-old reality star using a racial slur against Asian people.

In a cringe-worthy TikTok video that's gone viral, Ortega apologized for her heinous actions, admitting she had no idea the word held such significance and pain. "This is not an apology video, this is an accountability video," she said, her voice trembling with regret.

Ortega, who was half of one of the season's strongest couples, left the villa just a week before the popular reality show´s finale after old posts resurfaced that contained the slur

The drama unfolded just days ago when old posts from 2024 emerged, showcasing Ortega's careless use of the racial slur in an Instagram story. It was only a matter of time before fans began to call for her removal from the villa - and that's exactly what happened. Ortega left the villa just one week shy of the season finale, with producers announcing her departure on Sunday's episode.

But here's the tea: Ortega's family has been subjected to a barrage of hate messages and threats since her departure, leaving them feeling unsafe in their own home. "There's no need to fight hate with hate," she pleaded. "I don't think that's justice... If you want to know that you're heard and that I'm sorry and that I will move differently, I promise you, that's what will happen."

It seems Ortega has been forced to confront the consequences of her actions, with many fans calling for her to be held accountable. But is it too little, too late? Her video made no mention of her Love Island partner, Nic Vansteenberghe, who remained in the villa and even recoupled with fellow islander Orlandria Carthen.

Ortega addressed the entire Asian community in her nearly five minute TikTok video and said she is 'deeply, truly, honestly so sorry.' 'This is not an apology video. This is an accountability video,' Ortega said. 'I had no idea that the word held as much pain, as much harm, and came with the history that it did, or I never would have used it,' Ortega said

Meanwhile, another former contestant, Yulissa Escobar, has been stirring up controversy after leaving the villa last month. Her own apology for using racist language was met with skepticism by fans, who claim she's not taking responsibility for her actions. In a bizarre twist, Escobar took to TikTok yesterday to ask viewers to stop cyberbullying contestants - even though it's her own behavior that's come under scrutiny.

The drama is far from over on Love Island USA. With just days left until the season finale, fans are still reeling from Ortega's departure and wondering what other secrets will be revealed in the coming episodes. Stay tuned for more updates from TheScholarlyNote.com!

'I had no ill intention when I was using it, but that´s absolutely no excuse because intent doesn´t excuse ignorance.' Ortega, who has been back in the United States for about 48 hours, said she has struggled most with the backlash experienced by her family