ABC has decided to cancel the upcoming season of “The Bachelorette” featuring Taylor Frankie Paul due to a recently surfaced 2023 video. The decision to cancel the already taped season of the popular reality TV show was made just before its scheduled premiere on Sunday.
A statement from Disney Entertainment Television explained the cancellation, stating, “In light of the newly released video today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family.” The video in question reportedly shows an altercation between Paul and Dakota Mortensen from 2023, with Paul facing charges of aggravated assault and domestic violence in the presence of a child.
Although Paul pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of aggravated assault in August, the other charges were dismissed. Authorities in Draper City, Utah, confirmed an ongoing domestic violence investigation involving Paul and Mortensen, her ex-boyfriend, with allegations being made by both parties. Mortensen is the father of one of Paul’s three children.
Representatives for Paul and Mortensen have not responded to requests for comments. ABC has not disclosed its plans regarding the show’s timeslot.
Paul, who was actively promoting Season 22 until recently, was an unconventional choice to lead The Bachelorette, as she had not previously been part of the Bachelor franchise. However, the decision to cast her aligned with her role on “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” a reality show on Hulu, which like ABC, is owned by Disney.
Known for her influence in the #MomTok community on TikTok, Paul made headlines in 2022 when she announced her divorce and unconventional relationship agreements. Filming for The Bachelorette, hosted by Jesse Palmer, was completed in December.
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing family or intimate partner violence, please seek help through crisis lines and local support services.