Cierra Ortega was reportedly ‘very upset’ and ‘tried to apologise’ before removal from 'Love Island USA'

Love Island USA’s Cierra Ortega exit followed a resurfaced racial slur post that led to swift action by producers.

Cierra Ortega was “very upset” and “tried to apologise” after being told by Love Island USA producers she had to leave the villa.

Her exit followed the resurfacing of a social media post that included a racial slur. The post, allegedly from Cierra’s Instagram Story, was widely circulated by viewers who called for her immediate removal.

A production source told The Sun, “She didn’t want to leave the show and tried to apologise for what she did. We decided that apologies aren’t enough for topics like this.” Producers made the decision swiftly, with the insider explaining, “Cierra was against leaving the show at first, and thought an apology would be enough, but it doesn’t work like this.”

Cierra’s exit reportedly caused significant tension within the villa. Some contestants demanded explanations, while others asked producers to consider alternatives. However, production held firm. “We can’t have a bad image and allow people to use such unacceptable words,” the insider said.

Cierra has not issued a direct statement, but her parents posted on her Instagram account expressing regret and condemning the threats she has received. “We understand why people are upset, and we know accountability matters,” they wrote.

This incident marks the second time this season a contestant was removed for racism-related issues, reinforcing the show’s zero-tolerance stance.

Narrator Iain Stirling addressed the departure on air, noting Cierra had left due to a “personal situation.”