Cierra Ortega Removed from 'Love Island USA' 2025 Over Racial Slur Controversy
Cierra Ortega Removed from 'Love Island USA' 2025 Over Racial Slur Controversy
By M Muzamil Shami - July 7, 2025
Key Points:
Cierra Ortega removed from Love Island USA Season 7 after social media backlash.
Racial slur from resurfaced post triggered calls for removal.
Host Ariana Madix and narrator Iain Stirling address situation subtly.
Nic Vansteenberghe left heartbroken and confused.
Finale still scheduled for Sunday, July 13, 2025.
A Shocking Turn in the Villa: Cierra's Abrupt Departure
In a dramatic twist that left viewers stunned and social media ablaze, Cierra Ortega has been officially removed from Love Island USA Season 7 following the discovery of a racially offensive term used in a resurfaced social media post.
The decision to cut her from the cast was confirmed during Episode 30, which aired on Sunday, July 6, exclusively on Peacock. The revelation came about 15 minutes into the episode when longtime narrator Iain Stirling addressed the situation:
"Welcome back to Love Island USA, Cierra has left the villa due to a personal situation, leaving Nic officially single."
While the announcement was brief, the fallout from her exit has been anything but.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The uproar began after a social media post resurfaced, showing Cierra referencing her eyes in a manner that included an offensive racial slur targeting the Asian community. Cierra, who had been gaining popularity as a budding social media influencer, faced immediate criticism online.
#RemoveCierra quickly began trending across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Reddit, as thousands of fans demanded accountability from the show’s producers.
Many were quick to compare the incident to an earlier controversy involving Yulissa Escobar, another Season 7 contestant who was removed from the villa after footage
of her using the n-word surfaced during a podcast appearance.mmx
The Aftermath in the Villa
For Nic Vansteenberghe, Cierra’s sudden departure was emotionally devastating. The pair had grown close over recent episodes, and their budding romance had been one of the focal storylines of the season.
"Right before Cierra had left, my mind was clear. I knew what the future would look like, and now I’m lost," Nic shared in a confessional. "Now that my strongest connection is gone, there's just—figure it out from here."
Asked if he would be open to forming new connections, Nic appeared uncertain:
"I don't know."
The scene struck an emotional chord with fans, many of whom expressed sympathy for Nic while supporting the decision to remove Cierra.
Love Island’s Growing Crisis: Two Scandals in One Season
This marks the second racial controversy of the season—raising questions about casting processes and screening procedures. Earlier this year, Yulissa Escobar also faced the heat for past inappropriate comments and exited quietly.
Though she issued a formal apology, she later downplayed the seriousness of her actions online, which further angered viewers.
Fans are now urging the show's producers to implement stronger vetting protocols to prevent such incidents in future seasons.
What Happens Now?
With the finale set for Sunday, July 13, the departure of Cierra could reshape the villa dynamics in the final week. It remains to be seen whether Nic will attempt to recouple or exit the show.
The sudden twist also adds intrigue to the finale, potentially boosting viewer engagement and streaming numbers on Peacock.
Love Island USA Season 7 – Broadcast & Voting Schedule
Streaming Platform: Exclusively on Peacock
Air Days: Daily except Wednesdays
Special Episode: Love Island: Aftersun airs Saturdays
Finale Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025
Voting: Available through the official Love Island app
FAQs
Q1: Why was Cierra Ortega removed from Love Island USA?
She was removed after a social media post resurfaced showing her using a racial slur.
Q2: When is the Love Island USA Season 7 finale?
The finale airs on Sunday, July 13, 2025, on Peacock.
Q3: Is Love Island filmed live?
No, it's filmed with a 1–2 day delay but airs almost in real time.
Q4: Where is the villa this season?
Season 7 is filmed in the Mamanuca Islands, Fiji.
What do you think about Cierra’s removal? Should Nic stay in the villa or leave too?
Join the conversation in the comments below and vote for your favorite couple in the Love Island app!
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