Peacock’s new season of Love Island USA has already been rocked by a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it departure of one of the show’s so-called “MAGA contestants.” “Welcome back to Love Island USA. Yulissa has left the villa,” the voiceover declared in the second episode. No explanation was given on the abrupt exit, but fans speculated it was due to the resurfacing of a podcast appearance in which she used the N-word—twice. “I want to apologize for using a word I had no right in using,” Escobar said in a statement, appearing to confirm fan theories. “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 continued. The statement went on to explain that Escobar has “taken the time” to “reflect,” “learn,” and “grow” and that she plans now to “move forward with humility and accountability.” Guess she’ll be doing that somewhere other than our TV screens.
Read it at The Hollywood Reporter
