The reality dating series Love Island USA is once again at the center of controversy following allegations of racial slur usage by a new contestant. Alannah Keyser, who made her debut at Casa Amor during Sunday’s episode on Peacock, is reportedly featured in a resurfaced video where she appears to be singing along to a song containing the N-word. Additionally, a screenshot of a past social media comment allegedly shows Keyser using the same slur.
Fan Outcry and Defense
The emergence of these clips has prompted a swift reaction from viewers on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Many are demanding Keyser’s immediate removal from the show, with comments such as, ‘get alannah keyser off #loveisland NOW,’ and questions about whether production conducted adequate background checks.
However, a friend of Keyser, Nick Rogers, took to TikTok to defend the contestant. Rogers stated that Keyser is a caring and kind individual with no history of racist behavior around him. He suggested that the controversial screenshots might be fabricated, citing the potential for manipulation with current AI technology.
Addressing the Video and Past Context
Regarding the video, Rogers admitted he could not definitively confirm if Keyser was using the N-word, acknowledging it as a sensitive topic. He agreed that it is inappropriate for individuals who are not of color to use the word. Rogers also suggested that the video was recorded during a time when the word was used more freely, referencing the mid-to-late 2010s.
Keyser’s father, Stephane, also spoke out in her defense, telling a media outlet that the backlash is unwarranted. He described his daughter, a student of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, as an ‘educated sweetheart’ and emphasized that the family has friends from diverse backgrounds.
A Pattern of Controversy
This incident is not the first time Love Island USA has faced accusations of racism this season. In May, contestant Vasana Montgomery was removed from the show shortly before the season premiere after videos surfaced showing her allegedly using the N-word while rapping and in another instance with a friend.
Insiders reportedly indicated that Montgomery’s social media videos were private, which may have led to them being missed during the pre-casting screening process. The eighth season of the show, hosted by Ariana Madix, premiered on June 2.
Following the initial cast reveal, Love Island USA released a statement on Instagram promoting positivity and respect within the community, stating, ‘The Villa runs on good vibes, and so does this community. We love seeing your reactions, opinions, and debates, but everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.’ The message concluded by urging participants and viewers to ‘keep it kind, keep it positive, and remember: this is LOVE Island!’
Previous Incidents
The series has a history of similar controversies. Last year, contestant Yulissa Escobar was removed from the show after clips of her using racial slurs resurfaced. She later issued an apology on Instagram, acknowledging her ignorance and the impact of her words, stating she had learned and grown from the experience.
Another contestant from the previous season, Cierra Ortega, was also removed after past social media posts containing a slur targeting Chinese people were uncovered. Her parents released a statement expressing their pain and asking for compassion and understanding for their daughter.
Alannah Keyser has not yet publicly addressed the recent allegations.
