Why did Cierra leave Love Island USA? Shocking Season 7 exit explained

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Love Island USA’s seventh season has been full of unexpected twists, but viewers were taken aback when Cierra Ortega left so suddenly, given her recent connection with Nic Vansteenberghe. This development might be upsetting for some.

To this stage, Cierra and Nic had experienced a series of highs and lows. Their relationship began on the reality TV show early on, when Nic picked Cierra over Belle-A Walker.

After undergoing numerous trials, ranging from unexpected surprises to Casa Amor situations, they chose to concentrate solely on nurturing their bond, implying that they are no longer interested in pursuing other connections.

In last Friday’s episode (on July 4th), both of them agreed to carry on their relationship from the outside. However, in Episode 30 of Season 7, Cierra suddenly decided to leave, causing quite a stir.

Why did Cierra leave Love Island USA?

In the TV series, we learn that she departed from Love Island USA because of a private matter. Outside of the show, it’s been reported that Cierra has been under fire lately due to an old social media post containing a racial epithet.

The content producer based in Phoenix, Arizona, who is 25 years old, was discovered using a controversial term on Instagram. One of their posts read, “Botox might not suit everyone, but I adore it for myself.

I often find myself making many facial expressions, even when I’m not aware of it, and I end up frowning a lot during the day while concentrating or deep in thought, laughing out loud.

I sometimes have a playful, quirky side when I laugh or smile, which is why I enjoy getting a mini brow lift. It opens up my eyes and gives me a more defined look. Please note that this is not intended as encouragement but rather sharing my personal experience.

Following the dissemination of a screenshot from the post across numerous social media sites, there were demands for her dismissal. Numerous individuals highlighted that a similar incident occurred with Yulissa Escobar as well.

On July 2nd, someone posted on X/Twitter: “Love Island expelled Yulissa for a derogatory remark (which was appropriate), but Cierra did so too in an older post and there’s silence? Maintain the same level of concern. Racism doesn’t operate selectively.

On the same day, someone expressed, “It’s puzzling why Cierra is still in the villa… she seems to be using racial slurs. Yet, Yulissa was swiftly removed, but not Cierra.

What does this mean for Nic?

Initially, the news that Cierra was leaving left Nic speechless; however, he’s since chosen to delve into deepening his bond with Olandria Carthen.

Previously, they’d tried to delve into this matter during Casa Amor, but the moment wasn’t right. Instead, Cierra rekindled her relationship with Nic, while Olandria began developing feelings for Zak Srakaew afterward.

In simpler terms, Nic expressed to his companions, “Just as Cierra was about to go, my mind was peaceful. I had a vision of what the future would be, but now I’m confused. I believe that with what I consider my strongest bond vanished, it’s like – we need to find our way forward from here.

When inquired about his intentions to investigate a potential new link within the villa, Nic simply said, “I’m not sure.

If you continue to support and advocate for Nic from Love Island, especially after his racist behavior was exposed (which I had suspected given his Republican affiliation), I will block you without further ado. #LoveIslandUSA

— donny ੈ✩‧₊˚ (@vcnericka) July 3, 2025

Nevertheless, he discussed the subject with Olandria once more, and eventually, she opted for Nic during the most recent rearrangement, causing Zak’s departure.

In front of the villa, Nic is dealing with allegations of racism against him. A past post from his high school days has resurfaced, showing him dissecting a cat in class. The caption accompanying the image reads, “He says he’s hungry, this is a kitchen,” with the hashtag “#chinese” included. This implies that Nic made an offensive comment about Chinese people.

Multiple individuals have alleged that a post, initially circulated in 2019, reinforced harmful racial stereotypes. One person’s comment read: “Nick is a registered Republican and insinuated Chinese people consume cats; Cierra made an offensive remark towards Asians, which was comparable to them being a pair.

A user remarked, “If I’m mistaken, it seems no one is accusing Nick of being racist – everyone appears quite performative and strange in their actions. They only seem concerned about racism when it serves their purpose, such as eliminating a girl from their romantic pairing on Love Island USA #LoveislandUSA.

Belle-A responds to Cierra controversy

From Love Island USA Season 7, Bella-A, who was eliminated when Nic picked Cierra instead, has since addressed the ensuing drama, stating that she is now unable to endorse her fellow contestant.

On her Instagram Story, she expressed, “As a proud Asian-American woman, I’m heartened to see Love Island USA producers firmly stating their stance against any form of racism.

Initially, when I read the post my fellow islander shared on their social media platforms, it deeply saddened me. However, rather than responding immediately, I chose to wait until they had left the villa and were in a position to discuss the issue, offer a sincere apology, and promise to grow from this experience. Only then would I consider how our relationship might evolve in the future.

Over time, more and more images emerged, making it apparent that I couldn’t continue to back this individual. Consequently, I chose to stop following them several days ago.

She further explained, “The prejudice against Asians is frequently disregarded or ignored. However, as a first-generation American, I’ve personally encountered and felt the pain of such insensitive remarks.

I’m hoping this experience will highlight the significant problem of anti-Asian hatred. Similar to countless other Asian Americans, my mother came here to build a brighter future for herself and her loved ones.

Moved by the struggles she and numerous others have endured, I can no longer stay quiet. After all, why should I let go to waste the incredible platform granted to me by both God and all of you, if not to magnify the voices of my community?

I strongly oppose all forms of prejudice, including bigotry and racism. I also disapprove of hate in any shape or form. So, please consider your words carefully before posting any harmful comments towards or about this individual.

Cierra’s parents make request

After being eliminated from the villa, Cierra’s parents have posted a message on her Instagram Story, expressing that although they don’t approve of her actions, they are asking for an end to the threatening behavior towards their daughter.

On July 6th, a post was made stating, “As parents of Cierra, this week has been one of the most agonizing in our lives. We’ve witnessed the online posts, news headlines, the pain, and the hostility. Although Cierra is unaware of it all, we are, along with those who cherish her.

We acknowledge the concerns that have arisen, and we understand why they’ve led to frustration. Accountability is crucial, but the current situation online has escalated past that point.

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but express my deep sorrow over the relentless threats, harsh words, and attacks aimed at her – her loved ones, her comrades, even her well-wishers. It’s truly disheartening to witness such unnecessary hostility. No one, regardless of their errors, deserves to be subjected to such hate.

They further commented that Cierra hasn’t experienced the fallout yet because she’s currently out of the picture, having left the villa. However, they are confident that she will handle any negativity that comes her way with sincerity, maturity, and elegance.

Though she’ll forever remain our dear child, she’s also maturing into a strong woman, ready to claim her responsibilities when she feels it’s right and expressing herself confidently.

For now, let’s extend understanding and empathy. Let’s be patient. Let’s practice goodwill towards all, especially those struggling amidst this situation. A big thank you to those who keep showing kindness, even in challenging times.

Cierra’s exit follows Yulissa Escobar controversy 

In the second instance from Love Island USA Season 7, Cierra has encountered similar outcomes. As far back as June, Yulissa Escobar was dismissed from the television program following the resurgence of old podcast recordings where she used a racially charged slur.

A few short days following her departure from the villa, she penned a message on Instagram, saying: “To begin with, I’d like to extend my sincere apologies for employing a term that was not mine to use. Clips from an old podcast have been brought back into light, and I feel it necessary to address this matter directly.

In the videos, I employed a term that was completely inappropriate – a racial epithet. At the time, I was unaware of its profound significance, historical context, and the pain it causes.

I didn’t mean to offend or hurt anyone, but I understand now that good intentions don’t always lessen the effect. The effect of that word is indeed real, as it is deeply connected to generations of pain. Using such a word isn’t something I have a right to do.

She admitted she hadn’t given much thought or analysis to her words, and she simply wasn’t aware of a better alternative at the time.

She went on to say, ‘I’ve undergone significant transformations since that time, not only in my way of speaking, but also in my presence, posture, and respect for the experiences of those around me.’

Expanding your horizons involves admitting when you’ve made mistakes, despite the discomfort, and proceeding with modesty and responsibility.

Additionally, it’s important to note that false declarations have been spreading around, statements not originated from me, but rather attributed to me without accuracy. I would like to make it clear that these are not my sentiments or expressions. This is who I truly am, and these are the authentic words that I choose to use.

I prefer to express myself rather than have someone else do it for me. I stand accountable for my deeds. Disregard any false claims. The words you are hearing now are coming straight from me.

“To those who are disappointed or offended, I understand and I apologize. I am sorry.”

Over the past week, I found myself discussing my departure from Love Island USA on E!, sharing insights into the moment when I was asked to remove my microphone by the producers.

This situation caused her to worry that something might have befallen one of her loved ones, yet they informed her that an old video reemerged and it appears quite concerning.

Just as Cierra didn’t leave straight away, Yulissa also didn’t depart immediately. Instead, she endured for another couple of days without her phone, during which her episodes were being broadcasted on TV. Only after this period did she manage to find the videos that had spread across the internet.

She exclaimed, “Wow, I can’t believe it! I used a word I shouldn’t have. I understand now why I should not have said it. If only I hadn’t, but alas, that’s in the past. It is what it is. I can’t change it. I apologize for my mistake.

As a dedicated fan, here’s what I’m excited about diving into for my reality TV fix: Learn about the current status of the pairs from Single’s Inferno, uncover the backstory behind the Love is Blind engagement rings, and don’t forget to catch the latest series hitting our streaming platforms this month!

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2025-07-07 13:50