Why Did Cierra Save Taylor on Love Island USA? Fans Theorize Motives After Olandria Drama

One of Season 7’s most unexpected elimination decisions has viewers dissecting alliances, strategy—and maybe sabotage.

Cierra Shocks Viewers With Taylor Vote

Cierra Ortega’s decision to save Taylor Williams from elimination during the July 3 episode of Love Island USA left fans—and fellow Islanders—scratching their heads.

Taylor, 25, landed in the bottom three after America’s vote ranked him among the least favorite guys, alongside TJ Palma and Austin Shepard. Meanwhile, Jaden Duggar, Gracyn Blackmore, and Andreina Santos rounded out the bottom three girls.

But in a twist few saw coming, Taylor was saved—and not just by the men. Cierra, 25, was the only female Islander who stood behind him, despite his recent fallout with Olandria Carthen, 27, after choosing Clarke Carraway at the recoupling. That decision branded him “least genuine” in the eyes of the public and many castmates.

So why did Cierra back him? Fans have theories—and plenty of questions.

Girl Code Break? Fans Say It Doesn’t Add Up

Cierra’s choice sparked immediate backlash, especially given her friendship with Olandria, who was publicly snubbed by Taylor just days before. Many viewers questioned whether Cierra had abandoned “girl code” to back someone who hurt her close ally.

It wasn’t just a betrayal in fans’ eyes—it was a baffling move in terms of loyalty and logic. On paper, there was no clear connection between Cierra and Taylor. But dig deeper, and a few theories begin to emerge.

Theory 1: Following Nic’s Lead

One popular theory circulating among Love Island USA fans is that Cierra’s vote was a strategic nod to her partner, Nic Vansteenberghe. The couple had just “closed off” their connection, making their bond one of the strongest in the villa.

Nic, 24, also voted to save Taylor—a decision that raised just as many eyebrows. After all, just days prior, Nic had coupled up with Olandria during the Casa Amor twist, and viewers had hoped the two would rekindle their spark. Nic even appeared to question his future with Cierra during that time.

Then came the recoupling, where Taylor tried to send Olandria home. If anything, fans argued, Nic should’ve been the last person standing behind Taylor—making Cierra’s alignment with him all the more confusing.

Theory 2: Playing the Numbers

Another possibility? Cierra might have simply gone with the majority.

If it became clear that Taylor had the votes to stay, some speculate she may have followed suit to avoid rocking the boat or alienating her partner. But that still doesn’t explain why Nic, with his own complicated Olandria history, would back Taylor in the first place.

Theory 3: A Calculated Game Move

Then there’s the more cutthroat theory: Cierra’s vote was a calculated power play to eliminate a threat.

By backing Taylor, Cierra helped ensure TJ would be the one sent home—effectively breaking up the only other strong couple in the villa, TJ and Iris Kendall, 25. With them out of the running, only Cierra and Nic would remain as the dominant couple heading into the final stretch of the season.

If true, it would suggest that Cierra—who has called herself a longtime fan of Love Island USA—is thinking strategically. With a $100,000 prize on the line, loyalty may be taking a backseat to long-term gameplay.

Where Things Stand in the Villa

As the Season 7 finale approaches, the competition is getting fierce.

The Islanders still in the running include:
Cierra, Nic, Taylor, Clarke, Olandria, Ace Greene, Amaya Espinal, Bryan Arenales, Chris Seeley, Elan Bibas, Huda Mustafa, Pepe Garcia, Chelley Bissainthe, and Zak Srakaew.

With new twists likely around the corner, alliances could shift again—especially with viewers watching every move for signs of loyalty, strategy, or betrayal.

When to Watch

New episodes of Love Island USA drop six nights a week—every day except Wednesday—exclusively on Peacock.

With eliminations, recouplings, and drama intensifying, Season 7 promises to keep fans guessing until the very end.