This season of Love Island USA has been filled with drama, both on and off-screen. Two major controversies have rocked the show, involving BuzzFeed and contestant Cierra Ortega.
BuzzFeed's 'Knuckle Sandwich' Backlash
BuzzFeed's Tasty, a food-focused brand, faced intense criticism for an Instagram post about Love Island USA contestant Chelley Bissainte. The post featured breakfast suggestions for the female contestants, and Chelley's slide included a "knuckle sandwich," depicted as a white fist between two buns.
Social media users immediately condemned the graphic, accusing BuzzFeed of linking Chelley, a Black woman, to violence and even hinting at domestic violence. Chelley's team released a statement saying the post was "disturbing, disgusting, and unacceptable" and highlighted the reality of implicit biases rooted in anti-blackness.
BuzzFeed quickly deleted the post and replaced the knuckle sandwich with pancakes, acknowledging that the "joke" "missed the mark" and landed with unintended racial tones. However, Chelley's team criticized the follow-up post for its condescending tone and lack of accountability.
Cierra Ortega's Departure Amidst Racial Slur Uproar
Adding to the season's drama, contestant Cierra Ortega exited the Love Island USA villa just a week before the finale. Her departure followed weeks of controversy after old social media posts containing a racial slur against Asian people resurfaced.
The show's narrator announced Ortega's departure was "due to a personal situation," but the resurfaced posts were the clear catalyst. This marks the second contestant this season to leave the show due to past racist language, following Yulissa Escobar's abrupt exit earlier in the season.
Ortega's family posted a statement on her Instagram story, asking for compassion and patience, stating that she hasn't had the chance to process the situation or speak for herself. They also revealed that they, along with Ortega's friends and supporters, have received threats and hateful messages online.
These controversies highlight the importance of social media awareness and the potential consequences of past online behavior. Love Island USA continues to air daily, but these off-screen events have undoubtedly impacted the show's narrative.