What Happened and Why Huda Mustafa Apologized to Olandria Carthen After Livestream Racial Slur Controversy

Love Island USA star Huda Mustafa has apologized to her former costar Olandria Carthen after backlash erupted over her reaction to a racial slur directed at Carthen during a livestream hosted by Huda’s boyfriend, Louis Russell. The incident, which took place on October 27, 2025, quickly spread across social media and prompted widespread criticism from fans and fellow reality TV personalities.

Mustafa, who appeared on Season 7 of Love Island USA, initially laughed after the offensive comment was made. Following public outrage, she issued a statement on Instagram on October 29, addressing her response and clarifying her intentions. The apology has since drawn mixed reactions from viewers, while Carthen herself spoke out about the seriousness of such language and the importance of accountability.

Huda Mustafa Addresses Her Reaction to the Racial Slur

In her statement, Huda Mustafa expressed remorse and explained that her reaction stemmed from shock rather than amusement. “My reaction in that moment came from being caught off guard, not from finding the word or situation funny,” she wrote. “It was a nervous, uncomfortable reaction that I recognize was inappropriate.”

She emphasized her respect for Olandria Carthen and condemned the use of racial slurs, calling them “ignorant” and “deeply harmful.” Mustafa also pledged to make a personal donation to the NAACP and encouraged her followers to do the same. Carthen had urged both Huda and Louis to donate to organizations supporting the Black community earlier that same day.

Louis Russell, who rose to fame on Too Hot to Handle, also issued a statement on Instagram. He expressed regret for how he handled the situation, saying, “I’d like to extend my sincerest apology to all those affected by the caller who used language that completely goes against everything we stand for.” As a Black man, Russell said he understood the weight of the incident, adding that his “flustered response” was misinterpreted as indifference.

Olandria Carthen Responds and Calls for Accountability

Olandria Carthen, who finished second on Love Island USA Season 7, responded with a strong message on Instagram, condemning hate speech and emphasizing the pain that racial slurs perpetuate. “That kind of language is never acceptable,” she wrote. “Not in anger, not as a joke, not ever. Words like that carry generations of pain, and pretending otherwise only keeps the cycle going.”

Carthen said she would not let the situation derail her focus on uplifting her community, instead using it as a teaching moment. She also called for those involved in the livestream to donate to Black-led organizations, aiming to turn the controversy into positive action. Her response earned widespread praise from fans for its maturity and composure.

Public Reaction and Broader Impact

The incident has reignited discussions about racism and accountability within the reality TV community. Many fans of Love Island USA and Too Hot to Handle expressed disappointment but acknowledged that Mustafa’s apology was a necessary first step. Some questioned whether it went far enough, while others viewed it as an example of learning and personal growth in the public eye.

Entertainment outlets like CNN and BBC highlighted how social media platforms amplify accountability moments in real time, pushing reality TV stars to confront their actions publicly. This event also reflects ongoing conversations about race, privilege, and how public figures handle sensitive issues on livestreams or digital platforms.

Ultimately, Huda Mustafa’s apology to Olandria Carthen underscores the importance of responsibility in the public sphere. Both women’s statements show how confronting uncomfortable moments can lead to dialogue, reflection, and meaningful change.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Huda Mustafa apologize to Olandria Carthen?

Huda apologized after laughing at a racial slur aimed at Olandria during a livestream. She said her reaction was out of nervousness, not humor.

Q2: When did the livestream incident occur?

The livestream took place on October 27, 2025, on Louis Russell’s channel, featuring Huda Mustafa and other guests.

Q3: How did Olandria Carthen respond to the incident?

Olandria condemned racism, urged accountability, and encouraged donations to Black-led organizations to turn the moment into positive action.

Q4: Did Louis Russell apologize too?

Yes, Louis Russell apologized publicly, saying he was “caught off guard” by the incident and that it didn’t reflect his or Huda’s values.

Q5: What actions did Huda take after the backlash?

Huda pledged a personal donation to the NAACP and encouraged others to contribute to the cause as well.