Cierra Ortega, a contestant on Season 7 of Love Island USA, has unexpectedly exited the show just one week before its scheduled finale on July 13. The announcement was made during a voiceover that attributed her departure to a “personal situation,” offering no further details. Ortega’s early exit came at a critical moment in the season, raising questions among fans and media alike.
Resurfaced Posts Spark Controversy as Peacock Stays Silent on Ortega’s Exit
Ortega’s departure coincided with the resurfacing of two controversial social media posts from 2015 and 2023. According to the Daily Mail, these posts appeared to show Ortega using a racial slur while discussing cosmetic procedures she was considering. The timing of these revelations fueled speculation that the controversy may have played a role in her decision to leave the show, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Love Island USA’s Cierra Ortega Exits Ahead of Finale Amid Resurfaced Posts and Growing BacklashWhen contacted by CNN, a spokesperson for Peacock, the streaming platform for Love Island USA, declined to comment on Ortega’s exit. The network has remained silent amid the growing public reaction, which includes an online petition with over 17,000 signatures demanding Ortega’s removal from the show. This lack of official response has left many viewers turning to social media for updates and opinions.
Ortega’s Parents Defend Her Amid Backlash, Urge Public for Compassion and Patience
In response to the backlash, Ortega’s parents released a statement on her Instagram story addressing the “cruel messages” and threats directed at their daughter and her loved ones. They acknowledged the controversy surrounding the resurfaced posts, stating, “We understand why people are upset, and we know accountability matters.” However, they also emphasized that the online hate had gone “far beyond” accountability and urged the public to show compassion.
The statement from Ortega’s parents further revealed that Cierra is still sequestered and has not yet had the opportunity to process the situation or respond personally. Expressing their belief in her character, they stated that Ortega would handle the issue with “honesty, growth, and grace” upon her return. They concluded their message by asking the public for patience and “basic human decency” as their daughter navigates the aftermath of her public controversy.