Cierra Ortega, a 25-year-old content creator from Los Angeles, has left the Love Island USA villa "for personal reasons" after resurfaced social media posts stirred controversy. Her absence from the latest episode of season seven followed the emergence of a 2015 video in which she discussed Botox treatments. The situation intensified when fans highlighted an Instagram post containing a derogatory term aimed at Chinese individuals, sparking widespread criticism.
In a statement released by Cierra's parents, they described their daughter as a target of a hate campaign, calling for the public to show compassion. While managing her social media accounts during her time on the show, they reported that Cierra and her family received numerous threats alongside "cruel messages". "This week has been one of the most painful for our family," they shared. "No one deserves the hate that Cierra has received."
Cierra's parents acknowledged the significance of accountability for past mistakes but expressed concern that the hate directed at Cierra had escalated beyond a reasonable critique. They emphasized the need for empathy by saying, "We’re not here to justify or ignore what’s surfaced... but what’s happening online has gone far beyond that."
While she has left the show, her parents affirmed that Cierra has yet to process the backlash or voice her own perspective. "When she returns, we believe she’ll take on this challenge with honesty, growth, and grace," they stated, requesting compassion and patience from the public until that time arrives.
Her departure follows a similar incident involving fellow islander Yulissa Escobar, who exited the show after clips of her using a racial slur resurfaced. Yulissa later issued an apology, admitting to using the term "ignorantly" while detailing the intense backlash she faced upon leaving the villa. "I've taken the time to reflect, to learn, and to grow," she noted, underscoring the importance of acknowledging past wrongs and advancing with humility.
As discussions on social media continue to unfold, the production team of Love Island USA has been approached for comments on the recent events.
