A contestant on a popular reality dating series has left the program amid significant viewer backlash. The departure follows the online circulation of past social media content from the contestant that has been widely criticized as offensive.
The exit was announced during a recent episode. The narrator stated the individual had left due to a “personal situation,” leaving their romantic partner in the villa single. That partner was shown expressing confusion and a sense of loss following the sudden departure.
The controversy stems from social media posts, some dating back several years, in which the contestant used language considered a slur against the Asian community. After these posts resurfaced and spread online, a public petition calling for their removal from the show gained thousands of signatures, and the contestant reportedly lost a substantial number of social media followers.
The backlash also extended to a fellow former contestant on the series. In a public statement, this individual, who identifies as Asian American, affirmed they could no longer support the contestant in question. They expressed appreciation for the show’s producers taking a firm stance and highlighted the importance of addressing prejudice.
The contestant had entered the series partway through the season and had recently formed a committed connection with another islander prior to their exit. The program continues without them.
