The upcoming season of Love Island USA is already facing controversy, with a contestant removed just days before its premiere. Vasana Montgomery, 25, will not be appearing on the reality dating show following the resurfacing of videos where she allegedly uses the N-word.
Contestant Axed Amid Racism Allegations
Videos circulating online reportedly capture Montgomery using the racial slur on two separate occasions. In one clip, she is said to have uttered the word while rapping along to a song. In another instance, the word was allegedly used in the presence of a friend who was playing a game.
Sources close to the production confirmed to entertainment news outlets that Montgomery, a business owner, was removed from the cast. It is understood that the social media videos in question were set to private, which may explain why they were not flagged during the screening process before her casting.
Show Prepares for Premiere Amid Scrutiny
The eighth season of Love Island USA, hosted by Ariana Madix, is scheduled to debut on Peacock on June 2. The full cast of 12 contestants was revealed earlier this week. In a promotional teaser, Montgomery had expressed confidence, stating, ‘I think I am the full package. I own a business; I live alone; I have a dog. If you were to ask my friends what my type is, they’d show you the world map.’
Ahead of the cast reveal, Love Island USA shared a statement on its Instagram account, emphasizing positivity and a safe environment. The message read, ‘The Villa runs on good vibes, and so does this community. We love seeing your reactions, opinions, and debates, but everyone deserves to feel safe and respected. This is a space for fun, not negativity – so keep it kind, keep it positive, and remember: this is LOVE Island!’
History of Similar Incidents
This is not the first time the reality series has dealt with allegations of racism. Last year, contestant Yulissa Escobar was removed from the show due to past use of racial slurs. Her removal occurred off-camera during the second episode. Clips of Escobar using the N-word while discussing ex-boyfriends had resurfaced, leading to significant backlash from viewers.
Escobar later issued an apology on Instagram, stating, ‘Owning my mistakes, speaking my truth.’ She explained her use of the word was due to ignorance, acknowledging that while she did not intend to be offensive, her actions had a harmful impact. She expressed that she had taken time to reflect, learn, and grow from the experience.
Additionally, another contestant from the previous season, Cierra Ortega, was removed after past racist posts on her Instagram account came to light. These posts reportedly contained a slur offensive to Chinese people, used on two separate occasions. Ortega’s parents released a statement expressing their pain and acknowledging the upset caused, while also calling for compassion and decency amidst the online criticism.
