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A season meant to celebrate love quickly became clouded by hate! Here’s how a few of ‘Love Island USA’ breakout stars, including Olandria, Chelley and Huda, are standing tall as they address the critics.
Olandria, who stole viewers hearts all summer and was even called “the glue of the villa” by other Islanders, quickly became a fan favorite. Her down-to-earth energy resonated with audiences, from her trending ship, Nicolandria, to fans constantly voting to keep her on the show.But with more time on-screen came more public scrutiny, she says.
As she continues to adjust to life after the villa, Olandria opened up in an interview with Variety about how difficult its been dealing with racism and microaggressions post-show.
“Its difficult. Im not going to lie,” she said. “I heard there was even a meme comparing me to George Floyd and Huda to an officer. Thats a very sensitive topic for the Black community. Its disgusting, to say the least. I dont understand how you take a love show and make a comment like that. I was even getting death threats. My family was getting death threats. It shouldnt be like that at all. I just dont agree with it.”
Like Olandria, her villa sister Chelley often faced criticism, with both being labeled “mean girls” for setting boundaries on the show. Despite their genuine bond and bubbly personalities, public perception wasnt always kind. Chelley and Aces unexpected dumping from the villa left the internet stunned, and shortly after, both chose to take a break from social media. On Thursday, the pair returned online, and in her first post back, Chelley took a moment to thank everyone who had supported her through the backlash.
“To those whove stood with me since the beginning, to my new fans, to every person whether white, Black, purple, yellow who has shown nothing but love, thank you, she wrote. “To the people who used their platforms not just to recap a show but to speak truthfully about the deeper realities Black women face, your words for holding the line of truth with me and for me in times where hate seemed stronger than usual. Know that your love has towered over the hate. Its carried me, held me, and helped me find so much grace and happiness in my heart. Because of you, I never lost sight of who I am. I stand for love and peace, never hate.”
When asked about her recent bond with Olandria, Chelley, and Amaya, Huda spoke candidly about their connections and the online hate theyve been receiving.
“I still love Olandria, she said. If Im not hating her, I dont think anyone else should be either. Everyones entitled to their opinion, but there are definitely lines that get crossed. I dont condone hate. I dont condone bullying peoples safety is at risk. And the last thing I want is for anyone to feel unsafe or face backlash because of me. Thats ridiculous.”
She also spoke on Chelley, adding:
“Even with Chelley, were not the closest. But I do wish her the best. I dont think anyone should be getting any kind of hatred at all.”
Despite the backlash some Love Islanders faced, the support from celebrities and brands outside the villa was even louder. Several celebs, including Marsai Martin, Ryan Destiny, and others, took to their platforms to react to the shows weekly drama.Rapper GloRilla also showed love, posting on X: “I luv Chelley. She can do no wrong.”
Meanwhile, after sharing fun moments with the Islanders in the villa, Megan Thee Stallion had to clear the air, affirming her love for both Olandria and Chelley after facing criticism for previously saying she was “Team Huda” in an interview.
