reality TV drama

Cierra Ortegas Candid Take on Nic and Olandrias Romance

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Cierra Ortega, a standout from the latest season of “Love Island USA,” recently shared her unfiltered thoughts on the blossoming romance between her ex, Nic Vansteenberghe, and fellow contestant Olandria Carthen. After an early exit from the show, Cierra’s comments have sparked considerable interest among fans and followers. Season 7 of “Love Island USA,” which debuted in June 2025, introduced Nic as a contestant on a quest for love. Initially, he was linked with Belle-A Walker, but soon shifted his focus to Cierra. The two explored their chemistry for four weeks until Cierra left the villa due to a personal matter, as announced by narrator Iain Stirling just before the finale. Cierra’s departure was preceded by controversy when a resurfaced social media post revealed her use of a racial slur, leading to her removal from the show. This incident mirrored the earlier exit of Yulissa Escobar, who faced similar backlash for past comments. With Cierra gone, Nic found himself single and began to connect with Olandria, who he had previously been attracted to but had not pursued due to their ongoing relationships in the villa. After leaving Fiji with Olandria in July 2025, Nic opened up about his feelings for Cierra and whether he would reach out to her. “It seemed like I was jumping from Cierra to Olandria, which is just not true. We were taking baby steps because we were both kind of having those strong connections,” Nic explained. “It took longer than maybe what was perceived. We definitely took things at our own pace.” When asked about contacting Cierra, he stated, “I’m still processing everything with what’s happening. I need more time to think on it and go from there because it’s only been what, a day?” In the wake of her exit, Cierra issued an apology for her past behavior and began to weigh in on Nic and Olandria’s relationship. After regaining access to her phone, she subtly acknowledged their coupling by liking an Instagram post from Nic’s friends that featured fan edits and behind-the-scenes photos of him and Olandria. The post’s caption read, “And so it was written in the stars.” Reflecting on her brief experience on “Love Island USA,” Cierra shared her reflections on social media. “People, moments, and memories I’ll cherish forever. This journey didn’t end the way I hoped, but there was real connection, love, and growth in these moments,” she wrote. Cierra acknowledged that there’s “still so much more growing” for her to do, expressing gratitude for the experience. “And for the #nicolandria nation … they are two people I care deeply for and absolutely adore. I’ve always wanted nothing but happiness for each of them in this experience. That has never and will never change.” However, Cierra’s comments took a more pointed tone when she addressed her experience on the show. In a TikTok video, she remarked, “You look happier! Thanks, I booked a flight to Mykonos after surviving the villain edit on reality [TV] and I didn’t end up with the guy who never actually liked me and wanted my friend the entire time.” This statement hinted at her feelings of betrayal and disappointment, adding a layer of complexity to her relationship with Nic and Olandria. As the dust settles on the drama surrounding Cierra, Nic, and Olandria, fans are left wondering how their stories will unfold. The dynamic between these three contestants has captured the attention of the “Love Island” audience, and Cierra’s candid reflections only add to the intrigue. In the world of reality TV, where relationships can shift as quickly as the tides, Cierra’s journey serves as a reminder of the emotional complexities that come with love and competition. As Nic and Olandria begin their new chapter, Cierra’s journey of self-discovery and growth continues, leaving fans eager to see what lies ahead for all three. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving dynamics of “Love Island USA” and the latest from its unforgettable contestants.

Did Nics Family Address Cierra During Love Island Visit

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In a recent episode of “Love Island USA,” viewers were left wondering whether Nic Vansteenberghe’s family mentioned Cierra Ortega during their visit after her controversial exit from the show. The episode aired on July 11, 2025, and featured Nic’s mother and sister, who expressed their support for his current partner, Olandria Carthen. They proudly declared themselves “Day 1 supporters” of Nic and Olandria’s budding romance. While Nic engaged with his family, he did not delve into his past relationship with Cierra, who left the villa following the resurfacing of a racist post from her past. Although Nic remained tight-lipped about Cierra, he has shared some reflections since her departure. The connection between Nic and Olandria quickly became a fan favorite early in Season 7, even when both were initially involved with other contestants. Fans took to social media to advocate for more interactions between Nic and Olandria, sparking a whirlwind of edits and pleas online. The opportunity for Nic and Olandria to explore their connection came when both were individually eliminated during the Casa Amor twist of the season. Instead of being sent home, they were given the chance to couple up together. However, Nic ultimately chose to return to Cierra, while Olandria remained single until Cierra’s shocking exit. Cierra’s departure was prompted by the backlash surrounding her past comments, which resurfaced during her time on the show. Following her exit, Nic rekindled his bond with Olandria, expressing mixed feelings about the situation. “It is bittersweet. I was kind of really excited to feel closed off with somebody,” he admitted. “It took a lot for me to get to that point, but it was just not meant to be.” Interestingly, Cierra showed subtle support for Nic and Olandria by liking a fan edit of the couple on Instagram shortly after her exit. This came just days after she addressed the controversy that led to her removal. In a heartfelt video, Cierra acknowledged her past mistakes, saying, “I am not the victim in the situation. While I was in the villa, there were some posts that resurfaced from my past where I was very naively using an incredibly offensive and derogatory term.” Cierra expressed deep remorse for her actions, stating, “I want to first start by addressing not just anyone that I have hurt or deeply offended — but most importantly — the entire Asian community. I am deeply, truly, honestly, so sorry.” She explained that she was unaware of the term’s historical context and the pain it could cause. “I had no idea that the word held as much pain, as much harm and came with the history that it did or I never would have used it. I had no ill intention when I was using it, but that’s absolutely no excuse because intent doesn’t excuse ignorance.” Cierra also agreed with the network’s decision to remove her from the show, emphasizing the importance of accountability. “I think that this is something that deserved punishment, and the punishment has absolutely been received for sure,” she added. As “Love Island USA” continues to air new episodes six days a week (excluding Wednesdays), fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season finale on July 13. The show has seen its fair share of controversies, and Cierra’s departure is just one of many moments that have sparked intense discussions among viewers. With Nic and Olandria now at the center of attention, fans are left to speculate about the future of their relationship and whether Cierra’s past will continue to haunt them. As the drama unfolds, “Love Island USA” remains a captivating watch for reality TV enthusiasts.

Tensions Rise at Mormon Wives Reunion as Whitney Leavitt Faces Nick Viall

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Whitney Leavitt found herself in a challenging position during the reunion special of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*, which premiered on Hulu on July 1, 2025. The 32-year-old reality star often felt “called out” by host Nick Viall as she defended her friend and co-star Demi Engemann, who was absent from the reunion. Throughout the episode, Whitney faced numerous probing questions from Nick, 44, particularly regarding Demi’s behavior. One notable moment occurred when Nick asked Whitney if she believed Taylor Frankie Paul was “better at taking accountability” than Demi. Whitney’s nuanced response of “yes and no” prompted Nick to push further, asking if she considered herself superior to Taylor in this regard. Whitney hesitated, stating, “No, I don’t think that I’m the one to judge that.” Nick countered, “I’m not asking you to judge it. I’m asking you what you think,” escalating the tension. Whitney ultimately expressed that she felt both she and Taylor were “equal” in their accountability. However, Nick’s follow-up question—whether they were “equally good or equally bad”—added to the discomfort. As Nick conducted a poll among the group about Taylor’s accountability, Whitney voiced her frustration, feeling that Nick’s questioning was unfair. “It’s so double standard,” she said, referencing Mikayla Matthews, who she felt belittled her. Whitney insisted that it was unjust for others to judge her actions based on their feelings. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense as Whitney expressed her discomfort with Nick’s persistent questioning. “I feel like I’ve heard Taylor taking accountability for a lot of things. She does a lot of things, too,” Nick remarked, to which Whitney asserted that his perspective was merely his opinion. Her husband, Conner Leavitt, later joined the discussion, and Whitney confided to castmates Jessi Ngatikaura and Layla Taylor that she felt “so confused” about the unfolding dynamics. The episode continued to explore the complexities of the relationships among the cast members, particularly focusing on Demi, who was labeled a bully by some. Whitney acknowledged that Demi had “tendencies” to be mean but defended her friend against the harsh label. This prompted Nick to ask about the distinction between being a bully and having “bully tendencies.” Whitney responded, “This is me speaking from my heart. I feel like it’s so double standard when Demi is saying hurtful things, which isn’t OK.” She argued that public comments made by Jessi about her could also be considered bullying. Jessi, 30, disagreed with Whitney’s assessment, clarifying that her comments were valid reflections of her experiences. Nick, known for his podcast *The Viall Files*, chimed in, emphasizing the difference between responding to questions and intentionally hurting someone. Throughout the reunion, Whitney appeared visibly uncomfortable, though she did not revisit her issues with Nick’s questioning. As the reunion unfolded, it became evident that the dynamics among the cast had shifted since the show’s debut in September 2024. Season 2 began filming shortly after the first season’s success, revealing significant changes in the personal lives of the cast members. Fans of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* have been captivated by the unfolding drama, eager to see how the relationships evolve. The reunion special is currently streaming on Hulu, offering fans a closer look at the tensions and complexities of the cast’s interactions. Whitney Leavitt’s candid moments and her struggles with accountability are sure to resonate with viewers, providing a glimpse into the realities of life as a reality TV star.

Jessi Ngatikaura Addresses Scheana Shays Marciano Affair Claims

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In a recent exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Jessi Ngatikaura from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” opened up about her response to Scheana Shay’s allegations regarding an affair involving Marciano Brunette. The drama unfolded after Scheana claimed to have witnessed an encounter between Jessi and Marciano, prompting Jessi to clarify her side of the story. Jessi expressed her shock upon hearing Scheana’s claims, especially since they had been close friends. “I was really close with her, so I was really shocked to see that,” she said. However, Jessi appreciated that Scheana had given her a heads-up about the podcast episode that would discuss the allegations, allowing her to prepare for the fallout. To address the situation, Jessi sent Scheana a detailed 10-minute voice message, explaining her perspective. “After it came out, I did send her a 10-minute voice memo going over my side of things because she had never really heard my side. After that, she was like, ‘Oh, this makes a lot of sense,’” Jessi recalled. The controversy surrounding Marciano Brunette has been a central theme in the second season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” The season not only explored Marciano’s alleged romantic connection with Demi Engemann but also raised questions about his relationship with Jessi. This all began on “Vanderpump Villa,” where the rumors first surfaced. Jessi clarified that Scheana had some of the facts wrong regarding the situation. “There were things she didn’t know,” she stated. “So I set the record straight, and we’re good now.” Despite the initial shock, Jessi noted that she and Scheana managed to reconcile after discussing the matter. Throughout the season, Jessi has denied rumors that she was seen making out with Marciano at TomTom. In a twist, Marciano had previously suggested that he had an affair with Demi before claiming that his involvement was actually with Jessi, who is married to Jordan Ngatikaura. Scheana added fuel to the fire during her podcast, recalling that she had spent time with both Jessi and Marciano on the day of the alleged incident. “I have Marciano insinuating and alluding to like, ‘Yeah, that happened last night,’” Scheana recounted. Jessi, however, firmly denied any wrongdoing, stating, “No. He went and saw another girl and didn’t want to go back into your house that late in the middle of the night. He asked if he could come crash in my hotel room and he just slept on the little, like, couch chair.” As the drama unfolds, Jessi hinted that the truth behind Marciano’s claims will be addressed in the upcoming third season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” “I haven’t spoken to Marciano recently, but you will see in the next season,” she teased. “A lot of stuff comes out about that and just wait and buckle up. It’s going to be a ride.” Jessi revealed that she learned about Marciano’s claims before they aired, as filming for the next set of episodes was already in progress. “I knew about it because we were already filming the next set of episodes and we were dealing with it in real time. So I knew about it. But seeing it was so much harder than just hearing about it because I had to see the way he said things and what he did say.” With the second season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” ending on a cliffhanger regarding Marciano’s alleged affair with Jessi, fans are eagerly anticipating the third season. The show, which premiered in September 2024, has captivated audiences with its portrayal of the lives of Mormon women navigating complex relationships. Jessi emphasized that the narrative presented is not the full story. “I’m excited for the next set of episodes where I can tell more about what actually happened,” she shared. She also expressed her thoughts on Marciano’s social media commentary, describing it as “cringey” and suggesting that it may be perceived as an attempt to gain attention. “He had a little credibility in the beginning, but now I think no one believes him. He’s making himself look worse,” she added. In the meantime, Jessi is also engaging with fans through her partnership with RumChata, offering an exciting opportunity to win a trip to Salt Lake City for a VIP experience. The winner, along with two friends, will enjoy a glam makeover, an intimate meal with Jessi, and a chance to share their favorite soda recipes. Fans can participate by commenting on RumChata’s Instagram post with their favorite dirty soda recipe and a housewife-style tagline. “I do cola as the base. You can do any base you want, but that’s the one I prefer. Then I do a little bit of coconut creamer and then I do the RumChata,” Jessi explained. “You can do a lemon in there if you want. Extra ice is always my go-to as well. But the RumChata is really creamy, so it kind of mimics the creamer that we do in our normal dirty soda. So it’s perfect.” As viewers await the next season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” they can stay updated on Jessi’s latest endeavors and the unfolding drama surrounding her and Marciano. The show continues to be available for streaming on Hulu, providing fans with a front-row seat to the lives of these intriguing women.

Tamra Judge Defends Eddie After Shannon Beadors Controversial Remarks

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Tamra Judge is making headlines once again, this time for her fierce defense of her husband, Eddie Judge, following a comment made by fellow reality star Shannon Beador. During a recent episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” host Andy Cohen posed a provocative question to Beador, asking her to name a “Real Housewives of Orange County” husband she believed had “small dick energy.” Without hesitation, Beador named Eddie, sparking immediate backlash and a strong response from Tamra. In a now-deleted Instagram Story, Tamra, 57, took to social media to express her feelings about Beador’s remarks. She provided her own definition of “small dick energy,” describing it as a lack of confidence and a tendency to act in a petty or insecure manner. She pointedly remarked, “Ya, that really sounds like @eddiejudge. You might want to check your pants,” tagging Beador and adding a clown emoji for emphasis. The drama between Tamra and Shannon is not new. Their relationship has been tumultuous over the years, with both ups and downs that have played out on screen. Recently, they clashed over several issues, including Shannon’s drinking habits and Tamra’s friendship with Alexis Bellino, who is dating Shannon’s ex, John Janssen. During a previous episode, Tamra expressed her frustration with fans who sided with Shannon, suggesting they only had “half the story.” In her interview with Us Weekly, Tamra reflected on the ongoing tension, acknowledging that she can be reactive. “I’m being reactive, for sure,” she admitted, but she also emphasized her commitment to supporting Shannon during her struggles, particularly after Shannon’s DUI incident. “After her DUI, I was by her side every single day, talking to her every single day, trying to make sure she got the help that she needed. She didn’t get the help she needed,” Tamra stated, shedding light on her perspective of the situation. The upcoming 19th season of “Real Housewives of Orange County” promises to be filled with drama, as both women hinted at unresolved issues that viewers will witness when the show returns on July 10. Shannon teased, “There is so much drama in this season, but it’s stuff that you wouldn’t even script,” indicating that fans can expect unexpected twists and turns in their relationship. As the tension unfolds, fans are left wondering how the dynamics between Tamra, Shannon, and the rest of the cast will evolve. With both women known for their strong personalities, the stage is set for a season filled with confrontation, revelations, and perhaps, reconciliation. In the world of reality television, where drama and conflict often reign supreme, Tamra Judge’s fierce defense of her husband highlights the personal stakes involved. As viewers tune in to witness the unfolding saga, one thing is clear: the battle lines have been drawn, and the drama is far from over.

Ben Willoughby Responds to Captain Kerrys Criticism on Below Deck

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Ben Willoughby, known for his role on Bravo’s *Below Deck*, has addressed recent comments made by Captain Kerry Titheradge regarding his behavior off-screen. The tension between the two stems from the filming of Season 11, where Captain Kerry expressed disappointment over Ben’s actions and remarks during and after their time on the show. In an exclusive statement to *Us Weekly*, Ben reflected on their past interactions, saying, “That was over two years ago, and I haven’t worked with Captain Kerry since. I’ve moved on to new chapters, and I truly hope he’s doing well. I wish him nothing but the best.” This response comes after Captain Kerry’s remarks about Ben’s perceived attitude during their time together on the yacht. Captain Kerry described his experience with Ben as disheartening, particularly after witnessing the comments Ben made about him during the season. “I don’t quite get it because [his now-ex] Sunny [Marquis] worked for me. I had my own company in Florida and Sunny came to work for me after the season. And Ben was asking for work as well to come work for me,” he shared. Kerry emphasized that he had been supportive of Ben and even offered guidance, but felt let down when Ben reacted negatively to a factual statement made in an interview. Kerry suggested that Ben’s behavior may have stemmed from an inflated sense of self-importance, stating, “I guess he thought he was the star and that he was trying to drag me down, so it had no weight. So it was very disappointing for him.” He further noted that Ben’s comments had repercussions on his career, arguing that acting out against a captain could have lasting effects on a deckhand’s reputation. “It really affected his employment opportunities. He acted out against a captain and it was — regardless of a TV show or not — you act out against a captain, what do you think other captains are going to feel? They’re not going to trust you,” Kerry asserted. Throughout the season, viewers witnessed the evolving dynamics between Ben and Captain Kerry. Initially returning as a deckhand, Ben was promoted to bosun after the firing of Jared Woodin. Reflecting on his relationship with Captain Kerry, Ben noted, “Captain Kerry [has] very much of a military stance. [It is] more authority-based. So that was a bit of a learning curve for me. It doesn’t really work with the style that I like with my leadership. So we did have a little bit of friction there, and you might see a little bit of that coming up.” The *Below Deck* franchise has become notorious for its dramatic feuds, and this latest conflict is no exception. Fans have seen various tensions play out on screen, from the infamous fallout between Hannah Ferrier and Captain Sandy Yawn to other notable disagreements among cast members. Ben’s situation with Captain Kerry adds to this legacy, showcasing the intense pressures and interpersonal dynamics that reality TV can amplify. As the season progressed, Ben hinted at his dissatisfaction with the show and his future on it. In a fan Q&A on Instagram, he expressed mixed feelings about his experience, saying, “I once used to love Below Deck. There’s too much that isn’t seen. I’m at a crossroads as [to] whether the truth needs to be told or I don’t let this consume me anymore. [I’m] not enjoying this season due to a number of factors. I never wanted to step foot on St. David again under those circumstances.” Captain Kerry responded to Ben’s comments with surprise, noting that he expected an apology after watching the season back. “I would’ve fired him on ego [alone]. And he made the decision to act how he did after the fact, which is on him,” he remarked. *Below Deck* continues to air on Bravo every Monday at 8 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming the following day on Peacock. As fans tune in, they can expect to see the unfolding drama between Ben and Captain Kerry, as well as the intricate relationships that define the *Below Deck* experience. With each season, *Below Deck* provides a unique glimpse into the lives of those who work on luxury yachts, blending the allure of travel with the reality of interpersonal conflicts. As the franchise evolves, it remains a staple in reality television, captivating audiences with its blend of drama, humor, and the occasional heartfelt moment.