Vasana Montgomery apologized following her withdrawal from “Love Island USA» aired after videos surfaced that appeared to show her using a racial slur.
“I wanted to address some videos from my teenage years that have recently resurfaced. In those videos, I used a racial slur. There is no excuse for this and I am deeply sorry,” she wrote on her Instagram Story on Wednesday. “I am embarrassed and disappointed by my comments. I take full responsibility for what I said and I understand why it hurt and upset people.”
Peacock announced its removal from the Season 8 cast earlier this week after two videos began circulating on social media showing Montgomery, 25, appearing to utter a racial slur referring to black people.
The streaming service also told NBC News that she would not be included in the season. (Peacock is owned by NBCUniversal, the parent company of NBC News.)
In her Instagram Story discussing the videos, the Beaverton, Oregon, resident said she has “grown a lot as a person and taken the time to educate myself, listen, learn and better understand the impact language can have.”
“This growth does not erase my mistake, and I am not asking anyone to excuse it,” she added. “I believe people should be held accountable for their actions, but I also believe in growing, learning and becoming better.”
“I am truly sorry to anyone I have hurt or disappointed,” she added.
« Love Island USA» faced similar controversy last season, when actor Yulissa Escobar left the show after clips surfaced showing her appearing to use racist language during a podcast appearance.
Before revealing the cast for this season, “Love Island USA” released a statement on Instagram saying”The Villa runs on good vibes, just like this community. We love seeing your reactions, opinions and debates, but everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.”
“This is a space for fun, not negativity – so stay kind, stay positive and remember: it’s LOVE Island!” said the press release.
The real-time dating competition series premiered Tuesday and will release new episodes daily except Wednesdays after its first week.