Cierra Ortega Leaves Love Island USA: Parents Speak Out
Shortly after Cierra Ortega’s surprising departure from Love Island USA, her parents spoke out about the issue that led to her exit.
In the late hours of Sunday, July 6, Ortega’s parents took to their daughter’s Instagram Stories to share a heartfelt message addressing the resurfaced racist post that got Cierra sent home.
“As Cierra’s parents, this past week has been incredibly painful for us,” the message began. “We’ve witnessed the posts, the headlines, the pain, and the disdain. While Cierra hasn’t seen any of it yet, we have, and so have those who care about her.”
The post, featured in white text on a black background, continued, “We’re not here to excuse or ignore what has come to light. We understand why people are upset, and we recognize that accountability is crucial.”
The message also expressed support for Cierra, emphasizing the online backlash she faced leading up to and following the Sunday episode. “What’s happening online has gone far beyond [accountability],” the post continued. “The threats. The cruel messages. The attacks on her family, her friends, and even her supporters are heartbreaking. Such negativity is unwarranted. No one deserves that kind of hatred.”
The post noted that although Cierra is no longer on the show, she remains away from home and hasn’t had the chance to process the criticism. “She hasn’t had the opportunity to confront this or speak for herself,” it continued. “But we know our daughter. We know her heart. When she returns, we believe she will confront this with honesty, growth, and grace.”
It concluded with a plea for compassion toward Cierra: “We ask for patience. For basic human decency. Not just for her, but for everyone caught in this situation,” the post conveyed. “With love, Her family.”
During the episode that aired on Sunday night, narrator Iain Stirling mentioned that Cierra “left the villa due to a personal situation,” which left partner Nic Vansteenbergghe single.
In the weeks leading up to the episode, several social media users uncovered Cierra’s controversial past post, which included a racially offensive term. After the post gained traction online, Cierra’s friend MJ Hedderman addressed the resurfacing through Cierra’s Instagram account.
“Hi guys, I see your comments about someone I love and care for deeply. I want to clarify that I do not condone racism, bigotry, or hatred in any form, nor was I aware of the recent screenshots until they emerged,” MJ’s Instagram Story from Friday, July 4, stated. “I found out about it at the same time as all of you.”
In addition to MJ’s comments, Cierra’s other friend Johnnie Olivia also felt compelled to speak on her friend’s past post. “I’m sure many of you have noticed my silence regarding Love Island and that I’ve stopped publicly supporting my friend on the show. This came after I encountered a post featuring a racial slur for the first time,” Johnnie expressed in an Instagram statement released on Friday. “I enjoyed supporting her while she was on the show, but once I discovered that post, I felt it was necessary to take a step back.”
As for the happenings on the Island, Sunday’s episode depicted how, in Cierra’s absence, Nic rekindled his romance with Olandria Carthen, leading them to couple up ahead of the season’s final week.
New episodes of Love Island USA are available six days a week—except Wednesdays—on Peacock.
