Beaverton native Vasana Montgomery has publicly apologized following her dismissal from the upcoming season of "Love Island USA." The apology comes after videos resurfaced online showing Montgomery using a racial slur, which she claims were recorded during her teenage years.

This development is significant as it directly impacted the show's cast lineup just before its premiere, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny public figures face regarding past actions.

In a statement shared on her Instagram story on Wednesday, Montgomery expressed deep regret for her past words.

"There is no excuse for it, and I am deeply sorry," she wrote, adding that she was "embarrassed and disappointed." Montgomery took full responsibility for her actions, acknowledging the hurt and upset her words caused.

Montgomery, a 25-year-old Salem salon owner, was initially announced as one of the original cast members for the eighth season of "Love Island USA" last week.

However, TMZ later reported her removal from the popular dating series, which streams on Peacock.

Peacock stated that the circulating videos were "privately owned" and had not been released until after the cast announcement, according to Deadline.

Consequently, Montgomery was absent from the show's premiere on Tuesday.

The first episode, which was expected to introduce 12 cast members, ultimately featured only 10 contestants.

Montgomery emphasized her personal growth since the videos were made, stating, "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 clarified that her growth does not excuse her mistake and that she is not asking for it to be excused.

"I believe people should be held accountable for their actions, but I also believe in growth, learning, and becoming better," she concluded, reiterating her apology to anyone she hurt or disappointed.

This incident is not unprecedented for "Love Island USA." A contestant from a previous season was also removed after podcast clips resurfaced showing them using racial slurs, as reported by TMZ.

Ahead of the latest cast announcement, "Love Island USA" had issued a statement urging fans to "keep it kind."