What did Yulissa Escobar say? ‘Love Island’ contestant addresses resurfaced clips of her using a racial slur after being removed from the show

Yulissa Escobar is breaking her silence after she was abruptly axed from Season 7 of Love Island USA for allegedly using slurs.

Yulissa Escobar copped major flak online when controversial podcast clips of her repeatedly using the N-word emerged. The ex-contestant has since taken to Instagram to issue a lengthy public apology, coupled with a post that reads "Owning my mistakes, speaking my truth." Read her apology below:

"First, I want to apologize for using a word I had no right in using. Podcast clips from years ago have recently resurfaced, and I want to address it directly. In those clips, l 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. And the impact of that word is real. It's tied to generations of trauma, and it is not mine to use. 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."

Yulissa Escobar went on, asserting that she has since worked on herself, not only in the way she speaks, but also in how she shows up, carries herself, and honors the "experiences of others." She said she's growing, which can be "uncomfortable," but she's still choosing to move forward with humility and accountability. She said,

"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. 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."

Everything we know about Yulissa Escobar's controversial exit from Love Island USA

USA Today has reported that Yulissa Escobar's controversial clips first emerged ahead of the seventh season's premiere on June 3, though it is likely she had no access to her phone while shooting in Fiji.

It was only announced during a voiceover in Episode 2 that Yulissa Escobar, a 27-year-old Miami businesswoman, would be exiting the show. The episode came out on June 4. Iain Stirling also confirmed the news 20 minutes into the episode when he said, "Yulissa has left the villa." Peacock has yet to issue a statement about the same.

Season 7 of Love Island USA is currently streaming on Peacock, which sees Ariana Madix reprise her role as the host. The reality dating show chronicles the tale of a group of singles on their quest for love in a Fijian villa.

During their stay, “Islanders will couple up to face brand new heart-racing challenges and bigger twists and turns than ever before. Temptations rise and drama ensues as new ‘bombshells’ arrive, forcing Islanders to decide if they want to remain with their current partners or recouple with someone new,” the show’s logline reads.

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