Reality TV News
Ariana Madix is standing by ‘Love Island USA’ contestants. Here’s what she said ahead of the finale.
This season, Love Island USA host Ariana Madix has seen the greatest amount of views so far, but also the highest level of controversy. Two islanders have left due to past racist remarks, and the show has had to directly ask fans to abstain from bullying the contestants. Ahead of the season finale, Madix spoke about the love and respect she has for the contestants.
Ariana Madix said she still loves the ‘Love Island USA’ islanders after a season of controversy
The seventh season of Love Island USA concludes on July 13. Ahead of the finale, Madix reflected on the season as a whole. It has brought in the highest number of viewers of any US season. Still, it has sparked an unprecedented amount of online backlash.
“It’s been a really tough season for a lot of reasons,” she said on Aftersun (per Us Weekly).
Madix said she continues to support the islanders through the backlash against them. The show removed Yulissa Escobar and Cierra Ortega due to past racist remarks. A number of eliminated contestants have faced backlash. The show is live, so the contestants are not aware of any negative online conversation until they leave the show.
“The islanders who were eliminated, there’s been a lot of stuff that’s just been crazy,” Madix said. “I just want them to know, and any islander who has also left the villa this point, I just want them all to know how much I genuinely really love them and appreciate them for putting themselves out there.”
When told by former Love Island contestant Maura Higgins that the cast “adored” her, Madix responded by saying that “the feeling is mutual.” Madix has continually asked fans of the show to respect contestants.
