‘Love Island USA' Contestant Yulissa Escobar Apologizes for Using Racial Slur After Being Kicked Off Show: ‘I Didn't Know Better Then, but I Do Now'
'Love Island USA' contestant Yulissa Escobar has released a statement apologizing for using racial slurs in past podcast clips that resurfaced online.
'In those clips, I used a word I never should've used, a racial slur,' Escobar wrote on her Instagram account. '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. And the impact of that word is real. It's tied to generations of trauma, and it is not mine to use.'
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She continued: 'At the time, I was speaking casually in conversation, not thinking deeply or critically about what I was saying. But that doesn't take away from how wrong it was. 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.'
Escobar was removed from the villa during the second episode of Season 7, which aired on Peacock on Wednesday, with minimal context about the reason behind her departure. Shortly after Peacock announced the original 'Love Island USA' cast ahead of its June 3 premiere, fans exposed the ex-islander for her controversial past, vowing to vote her off the show once submissions opened. In the clips obtained by TMZ, she is heard saying the N-word several times while discussing past relationships.
'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,' Escobar wrote. 'Growth means recognizing when you were wrong, even if it's uncomfortable, and choosing to move forward with humility and accountability.'
In her apology, Escobar also addressed claims of false statements about her character circulating online since her exit.
'There have also been fake statements circulating, things written or said by others that don't reflect me or my heart,' Escobar continued in her post. 'I want to clarify that this is my voice and my words. I don't need anyone to speak for me. I'm choosing to speak for myself because I take full ownership of my actions. Do not listen to the fake statements. This is my official statement. This is me speaking directly to you. To those who are disappointed or offended, I understand, and I apologize. I am sorry.'
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