Love Island USA season 7 is a ratings hit, but production has been under fire for everything from interference to controversial casting choices. Following in the footsteps of season 6’s success in the summer of 2024, season 7 hasn’t failed to bring the drama. But despite being entertaining, the show has been slammed for denying participants the ability to form strong connections.

The islanders were granted the power to vote out several of their peers, even those with strong connections, leading season 7 to be dubbed “friendship island.” Love Island USA’s producers also faced criticism for their decision to keep Huda Mustafa on the show as her behavior became aggressive and unstable.

Now, with yet another cast member’s actions under scrutiny, new concerns are being raised about the thoroughness of production’s vetting process.

He Follows Several Problematic Men On Twitter

TJ Palma, a bombshell who joined Love Island USA season 7 on day 14, has been exposed for some questionable online activity. TikTok user @haley.metzger pointed out that TJ follows Andrew Tate, a misogynist and accused sexual predator, on Twitter. TJ also follows Tory Lanez. Tory was convicted of shooting Megan Thee Stallion, who made a guest appearance on Love Island USA alongside TJ.

According to Haley’s post, TJ’s best friend, Jarret Chambers, made matters worse when he attempted to come to TJ’s defense.

Haley alleged that in comments on his now-deleted video, Jarret defended TJ by claiming he follows Andrew Tate for “business advice.”

Hannah Fields Refused To Consider TJ As A Potential Love Interest

The Two Weren’t Ideologically Aligned

Hannah Fields, who was voted out of the villa shortly after TJ’s arrival, also shared her opinion about TJ’s politics. In a post-exit appearance on the Chicks In The Office podcast, Hannah confirmed that she never considered TJ as a potential love interest due to his views. She said that after one conversation with TJ, she knew he had “different opinions on things that I just don’t waver on.”

Commenters immediately made the connection between Hannah’s statement and TJ’s social media activity. Hannah’s claims are further evidence that TJ has some problematic beliefs, which turned her off from getting to know him. This proves that production’s failure to adequately vet contestants inhibited the cast’s ability to form quality connections.

TJ Isn’t The Only Love Island USA Season 7 Cast Member Surrounded By Controversy

Two Others Have Been Called Out

The controversy surrounding TJ comes after several other cast members were called out for their behavior. Yulissa Escobar was removed from the villa without explanation after videos were uncovered of her using racist language. Austin Shepard has also been called out for liking and retweeting hateful posts on social media.

Producers’ failure to thoroughly vet the cast – or the decision to cast them regardless – is concerning. They likely have a massive pool of applicants, giving them no reason to cast somebody who promotes hate or misogyny. Producers are entrusted with ensuring a safe environment at the Love Island USA villa, and as more evidence of their questionable casting choices emerges, it appears they’re woefully failing in their duties.

Sources: @haley.metzger/TikTok, Chicks In The Office/YouTube