Yulissa Escobar, a 27-year-old contestant from Miami, made headlines after her abrupt departure from Season 7 of Love Island USA. Her exit, occurring just two episodes into the season, was prompted by the resurfacing of past podcast clips in which she used a racial slur.
The controversy began when clips from Escobar’s previous podcast appearances surfaced online, revealing her use of the N-word. These clips quickly went viral, leading to widespread backlash from fans and viewers who called for her removal from the show. The situation escalated rapidly, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment and demand action from the show’s producers.
In response to the mounting criticism, Love Island USA addressed Escobar’s departure during the June 4 episode. Narrator Iain Stirling announced, “Yulissa has left the villa,” without providing further details. This brief mention left viewers speculating about the reasons behind her sudden exit.
Escobar broke her silence on June 6 by issuing a public apology on Instagram. In her statement, she expressed deep remorse for her past actions, stating, “First, I want to apologize for using a word I had no right in using. In those clips, I used a word I never should’ve used, a racial slur. I used it ignorantly, not fully understanding the weight, history, or pain behind it. I wasn’t trying to be offensive or harmful, but I recognize now that intention doesn’t excuse impact.” She acknowledged her ignorance at the time and emphasized her commitment to personal growth and accountability.
Escobar further elaborated on her journey towards understanding and change, saying, “I’ve changed a lot since then, not just in how I speak, but in how I show up, how I carry myself, and how I honor the experiences of others. Growth means recognizing when you were wrong, even if it’s uncomfortable, and choosing to move forward with humility and accountability.” She concluded her message by apologizing to those she had disappointed or offended.
Prior to her departure, Escobar was coupled with fellow contestant Ace Greene, a 22-year-old TikTok livestreamer. Her exit left Greene single and adjusting to the dynamics of the villa without his initial partner. The remaining contestants continued their journey on the show, navigating new relationships and challenges.
The incident sparked discussions about the importance of thorough vetting processes for reality TV contestants and the responsibilities of public figures to uphold respectful and inclusive behavior. Fans and commentators emphasized the need for accountability and the impact of past actions on present opportunities.
Love Island USA Season 7, hosted by Ariana Madix, continues to air on Peacock, featuring a diverse cast competing for love and a $100,000 prize. The show remains a popular platform for exploring romantic connections, personal growth, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships in a high-stakes environment.
Escobar’s departure serves as a reminder of the enduring consequences of one’s words and actions, particularly in the digital age where past content can resurface and influence public perception. Her public apology highlights the potential for growth and the importance of acknowledging and learning from past mistakes.
