David Bridges
Star of ‘Love Island USA,’ Cierra Ortega, is finally addressing the situation after her unexpected exit from season seven gained viral attention. According to a report from The Shade Room, producers made the decision to remove Cierra from the villa after old social media posts surfaced, which unfortunately revealed her use of a racial slur targeting the Asian community. Now, Cierra is stepping up to take full accountability for her actions and is candidly sharing her feelings regarding the events that transpired.
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Cierra Ortega Accepts Responsibility for Her Actions After Controversial Exit from ‘Love Island USA’
In a series of heartfelt videos shared by The Shade Room, Cierra Ortega is seen speaking from what appears to be her bedroom shortly after her departure from the ‘Love Island USA’ villa. The former contestant expresses that she was completely unaware that she had used a racial slur in her past social media posts. Furthermore, she addressed the Asian community, taking full responsibility for her actions, and emphasized that she does not view herself as a victim in this troubling situation.
“I am deeply, truly, honestly… so sorry. I had no idea that the word held as much pain and harm and came with the history that it did, or I never would’ve used it. I had no ill intention when I was using it, but that’s absolutely no excuse because intent doesn’t excuse ignorance. I take accountability for using the word. I genuinely had no idea that it was a slur and no idea of its meaning,” Cierra expressed in the video.
Cierra Opens Up About Her Removal from the Villa & Family’s Struggles Amidst Backlash
During her reflection on the situation, Cierra Ortega remained transparent and stated that she fully agrees with the network’s decision to remove her from the show. She recognized the severity of her actions and acknowledged the necessary consequences that followed.
“I completely agree with the network’s decision to remove me from the villa. I think this is something that deserves punishment. The punishment has absolutely been received for sure,” Cierra articulated.
Moreover, she conveyed her understanding of why people are criticizing her for the words she used in those past posts. She recognizes the confusion and pain her actions have caused.
“I think the backlash has been hard to deal with, but I understand that people are kind of confused about why I would’ve even said or why I would’ve been doubling down on continuing to use it. So, I understand where the hate is coming from,” she reflected.
While Cierra took responsibility for her actions, she also expressed discomfort regarding the backlash her family has faced as a result of her actions. She shared the emotional toll it has taken on her family, making it clear that they have been fearful for their safety and have even had to deal with the involvement of ICE due to the backlash stemming from this incident.
“There’s no need to fight hate with hate. I don’t think that’s justice. And if you want to know that you are heard and that I’m sorry… and that I will move differently, I promise you that’s what will happen,” Cierra assured.
A Look Back at Cierra’s Controversial Past Social Media Posts
As previously reported by The Shade Room, Cierra’s departure from ‘Love Island’ was prompted after old social media posts from 2015 resurfaced. One particular photo depicted her enjoying an outdoor adventure with the caption, “Still chinkin’ even at the top.”
In another selfie, she expressed her thoughts on Botox and, despite loving her appearance, mentioned feeling her face could sometimes appear a little “ch**ky.” “I can also be a little chinky when I laugh/smile so I love getting a mini brow lift to open up my eyes and get that snatched look,” she commented at that time.
As soon as those 2015 posts began circulating online, social media users did not hesitate to call for her removal from the show. A Change.org petition was launched, emphasizing the situation and calling it “Send Cierra Home #StopAsianHate,” further amplifying the outcry against her past remarks.
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What Do You Think Roomies?
Maya Kensington
Cameron Steel
