Vasana Montgomery Addresses Removal From Love Island USA Season 8

Vasana Montgomery has broken her silence following her exit from Love Island USA just ahead of the show's season 8 premiere.

After resurfaced videos appeared to capture the former contestant using a racial slur during her teenage years, Montgomery was removed from the Peacock dating series before its June 2 launch. The footage circulated online shortly after the season 8 cast announcement.

Taking to Instagram Story, Montgomery shared a statement acknowledging the controversy. "I want to address a couple videos from my teen years that have recently resurfaced. In those videos, I used a racial slur. There is no excuse for it, and I am deeply sorry. I am embarrassed and disappointed by my words," she wrote.

The reality TV hopeful emphasized her accountability in the situation. "I take full responsibility for what I said and understand why it has hurt and upset people," Montgomery stated.

She noted that she has evolved considerably since those videos were filmed, using the intervening time to reflect and educate herself. "Since then, I have grown a lot as a person and taken the time to educate myself, listen, learn, and better understand the impact that language can have," she explained. "That growth does not erase my mistake, and I am not asking anyone to excuse it."

Montgomery concluded by expressing her belief that accountability and personal development can exist simultaneously. "I believe people should be held accountable for their actions, but I also believe in growth, learning, and becoming better. To anyone I hurt or disappointed, I am truly sorry."

Love Island USA season 8 premiered on June 2 and is now streaming on Peacock.