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Yulissa Escobar, a contestant from Love Island USA season 7, has issued a public apology after podcast clips resurfaced of her using a racial slur. Following her unexpected exit from the villa in episode 2, Escobar posted a statement on Instagram, addressing the controversy.
“To those who are disappointed or offended, I understand and I apologize. I am sorry,” she wrote.
The apology was posted on Instagram on June 7, 2025, days after fans discovered recordings in which she repeatedly used the N-word while speaking on past relationships during podcast appearances made prior to her time on the show.
Yulissa Escobar responds to resurfaced podcast slur after Love Island USA season 7 exit
Podcast clips resurface after cast announcement
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The incident began shortly after the Love Island USA season 7 cast was announced on May 29. Viewers circulated audio from two separate podcast episodes where Escobar used the N-word multiple times.
These clips were recorded before her appearance on the show. In her statement, the Love Island USA star said,
“Podcast clips from years ago have recently resurfaced, and I want to address it directly...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.”
The scenes addressing her exit were brief. Viewers were informed in episode 2 by the show’s narrator that “Yulissa has left the villa.”
No additional context was provided during the episode.
Yulissa Escobar addresses the language used
Yulissa Escobar emphasized that the way she spoke during the podcasts did not reflect a clear understanding of the word’s implications. She said,
“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.”
She explained that the comments were made during a casual conversation and without critical thought.
At the time, she admitted to "speaking casually in conversation" and not fully considering the implications of her words, but emphasized that this context did not excuse how wrong it was.
Escobar also acknowledged that her past behavior did not reflect the awareness she has since developed.
“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.”
Statement clarifies misinformation and expresses ownership
In addition to the apology, Escobar clarified that several unauthorized statements were circulating that did not represent her.
“There have also been fake statements circulating, things written or said by others that don’t reflect me or my heart...I want to clarify that this is my voice and my words,” she wrote.
She stressed her decision to speak directly to the public. Escobar stated,
“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.”
She concluded her post with a message directed at those impacted by her actions.
The Love Island USA star explained that she has changed significantly since the time of the podcast, not only in how she communicates but also in how she presents herself, interacts with others, and acknowledges their experiences.
Stream Love Island USA anytime on Peacock.
