Love Island: Contestant Apology for N-Word Use
‘Love Island USA’ Contestant Apologizes After Racial Slur Controversy
Updated June 7, 2025
Yulissa Escobar, a contestant on peacock’s ”Love Island USA,” has issued an apology after being removed from the show. The removal followed the circulation of video clips showing Escobar using a racial slur on a previous podcast.
During the June 4 episode, narrator Iain Stirling announced Escobar’s departure, leading many viewers to believe it was due to the problematic statements. Escobar has now addressed the controversy, expressing remorse for her actions, though the apology has received mixed reactions.
In an Instagram post, Escobar wrote, “First, I want to apologize for using a word I had no right in using,” referring to the resurfaced clips. She acknowledged using the N-word while discussing men on a podcast.
“In those clips, I used a word I never should’ve used, a racial slur,” Escobar stated. “I used it ignorantly, not fully understanding the weight, history, or pain behind it.” She added that while her intention wasn’t to be offensive,she now recognizes that intention doesn’t negate the impact of her words.
I wasn’t trying to be offensive or harmful, but I recognize now that intention doesn’t excuse impact. And the impact of that word is real. It’s tied to generations of trauma, and it is indeed not mine to use.
Yulissa Escobar
Escobar claimed she has since changed her ways. She explained that at the time, she was “speaking casually in conversation” and didn’t consider the potential impact of her words. “The truth is, I didn’t know better then, but I do now. I’ve taken the time to reflect,to learn,and to grow from that moment,” she wrote.
Reactions to Escobar’s apology have been varied. Some social media users questioned the sincerity of her statement, given the timing of her removal from ”Love Island USA.” Others expressed that having her remain on the show to understand the weight of her words would have been a more effective lesson.
Not understanding the weight, history, or pain of the word? I don’t buy it. It doesn’t take thinking ‘deeply or critically’ to know not to say the number one racial slur. This is so embarrassing.
X user
Though, Escobar also received support, with some followers commenting on her Instagram post that “everybody makes mistakes” and that “life is about growth and learning.”
As Escobar’s departure, “Love Island USA” has introduced two new cast members, bringing the total to 11. The current female contestants include Chelley Bissainthe, Olandria Carthen, Huda Mustafa, Belle-A Walker, and Cierra Ortega. The male contestants are Austin Shepard, Ace Greene, Taylor Williams, jeremiah Brown, Nicolas Vansteenberghe, and Charlie Georgiou.
What’s next
The show will continue with the remaining contestants as they compete for the $100,000 grand prize, navigating relationships and challenges in the villa.