Love Island’s Amaya Is a “Sensitive Gangster,” and So Am I

The seventh season of “Love Island USA” has officially come to an end and not only was it a win for Amaya Espinal, but for sensitive gangsters everywhere.

Truth be told, I cry a lot. Just ask any of my loved ones. I always have. Tears are how I express my emotions — whether I’m sad, happy, frustrated, or angry. Crying immediately provides a cathartic release for me. And guess what? My therapist says it’s OK. I’m a proud crier and, thanks to Amaya, a “sensitive gangster,” too.

To those who may be unfamiliar with the term, Amaya, affectionately known as Amaya Papaya used the word to describe herself throughout the seventh season as she received criticism from the men in the house for being overly emotional. Like me, Amaya often defaults to tears when navigating tough conversations or during awkward moments. She wears her heart on her sleeve — which, last time I checked, was not a crime.

Being a sensitive gangster isn’t something to be ashamed of: We’re the type of people who love hard and give everything.

But the men of “Love Island” seemed to think so, taking it upon themselves to attack Amaya for doing just that. Throughout the season, all three of Amaya’s past connections — Austin Shepherd, Ace Greene, and Zak Srakaew — complained about the way she expressed herself.

The most hurtful complaints took place during the July 1 episode’s “Stand on Business” challenge where the three men clobbered Amaya for being overly affectionate, calling them “babe” (let it go, Ace), and just generally being “too much.” Amaya initially tried to brushed off the complaints: “God forbid I’m a sensitive gangster,” she said. “I would just like to say, many people could view this as a weakness, but to me personally after everything I’ve been though in my life, I view it as a strength,” Amaya added. “So if you guys view it like that, then guess what? I’m just not your cup of tea to be drinking, so don’t fucking drink it.” Honestly, there was nothing more to say after that.

But the men kept going, badgering Amaya for subjecting them to her all-too-big emotions. It was at that point that Amaya’s now co-winner, Bryan Arenales, stood up for Amaya, explaining to Ace that coming from a Hispanic household, calling someone you’re talking to “babe,” “mi vida” and “mi amor” is cultural and that he should do a better job of trying to empathize and meet Amaya halfway. From that episode on, viewers witnessed a genuine connection unfold between Amaya and Bryan, one where Amaya was admired for her expressive nature and proclivity for tears, rather than shamed. And look where it got them: to a seemingly beautiful connection and $100,000.

As I watched Bryan continue to validate Amaya’s feelings these last few episodes, I realized just how much of a sensitive gangster I am, too. As I sat there watching Amaya be loved for being herself, I started tearing up. I instantly recalled times when I was labeled as being “too sensitive” or told “please don’t cry,” after being blatantly hurt by someone. I also thought about how lucky I feel to have a husband who is not only immune to tears, but has developed an affinity for my outbursts. My very own real-life Bryan or, as Amaya calls him, Prince Charming.

So to all the sensitive gangsters out there, let this be a reminder that you deserve the fairy tale, too — and you don’t have to water down your emotions for anyone. Being a sensitive gangster isn’t something to be ashamed of: We’re the type of people who love hard and give everything. We ride for our loved ones to the end, and you probably won’t find anyone as loyal. Yes, we have a lot of feelings and we may use a few dozen tissues along the way, but who cares when you’re getting unconditional love and support in return?

On the off chance you find that the sensitive gangster is not your type, feel free to communicate that directly (preferably without the better-than-you attitude). And if a few tears during that conversation make you uncomfortable, that’s your problem.

Alexis Jones (she/her) is the senior health and fitness editor at PS. In her seven years of editorial experience, Alexis has developed passions and areas of expertise around mental health, women’s health and fitness, racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare, and chronic conditions. Prior to joining PS, she was the senior editor at Health magazine. Her other bylines can be found at Women’s Health, Prevention, Marie Claire, and more.