Three contestants on Love Island USA have been removed after old videos and social media posts containing racial slurs resurfaced. The removals, spanning June and July 2025, have sparked fresh criticism of the show's vetting process and raised questions about accountability in reality TV.

Vasana's June 2 removal after n‑word videos

According to the show's producers, 25‑year‑old Vasana from Beaverton , Oregon, was cut from the season‑8 premiere scheduled for Monday, June 2, after two onlinne clips emerged in which she appeared to use the n‑word. In one video she sings along to a track that includes the slur, and in another she allegedly says “knock knock, n*****” while playing an arcade game. The producers announced the decision without comment, but an Instagram post later emphasized that the villa “runs on good vibes” and that “everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.”

Yulissa's June 6 Instagram apology over podcast slur

On June 6, 2025, 28‑year‑old contestant Yulissa posted an Instagram apology after resurfaced podcast clips showed her using a racial slur . she wrote that she used the word “ignorantly” and did not understand its historical weight, stating, “I wasn’t trying to be offensive or harmful , but I recognize now that intention doesn’t excuse impact.” The apology arrived as the series continued to grapple with the fallout from multiple incidents , highlighting how past online behavior can affect present opportunities.

Cierra Ortega exits July 6 amid Asian slur controversy

Season‑8 narrattor Iain Stirling noted that 26‑year‑old Cierra Ortega left the villa during the July 6 episode for a “personal situation.” The departure was linked to resurfaced posts in which she allegedly used an offensive term for Asian people.. After returning to the United States, Cierra posted a video on July 9 apologizing, saying she was unaware the term was offensive and expressing sorrow to the Asian community. Her exit adds a third high‑profile removal this season.

Recurring vetting failures in Love Island franchise since 2002

Critics point out that these incidents are not isolated. The Love Island franchise, which began in the UK in 2002, has faced similar controversies, and the U.S. version on Peacock has previously removed contestants for racist posts. As reported by multiple media outlets, the pattern suggests systemic shortcomngs in the casting and background‑check procedures that allow individuals with problematic histories to reach the screen.

Who will overhaul the casting vetting process?

The show’s producers have not confirmed whether they will revise their screening methods, leaving viewers to wonder if future seasons will feature stricter background checks. Additionally, it remains unclear how many other contestants might have undisclosed offensive content that could surface later.