Full Breakdown
ABC Cancels Upcoming Season of *The Bachelorette* Amid Domestic Violence Allegations Against Taylor Frankie Paul
3/20/2026, 8:35:24 PM
Cancellation of *The Bachelorette*
ABC has officially canceled the upcoming season of *The Bachelorette*, which was set to premiere on March 22, 2026, featuring Taylor Frankie Paul, a star from *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*. The decision follows the release of a video showing Paul allegedly engaging in violent behavior towards her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, during a domestic dispute in 2023. A spokesperson for Disney Entertainment stated, “In light of the newly released video just surfaced 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.”
Background of Domestic Violence Allegations
The controversy surrounding Paul has been ongoing, with a domestic violence investigation currently active in Draper City, Utah. Both Paul and Mortensen have made allegations against each other, leading to a complex legal situation. In 2023, Paul was arrested for aggravated assault after an incident involving Mortensen, during which she reportedly threw a chair that struck her daughter. Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and is currently serving a three-year probation, which is set to end in August 2026.
Recent Developments
The recent video, published by TMZ, depicts Paul throwing metal chairs at Mortensen while their daughter was present, prompting public outcry and calls for ABC to cancel the season. Mortensen, who recorded the incident, can be heard expressing concern for their child's safety during the altercation. Following the video's release, production on the fifth season of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* has also been paused due to the ongoing investigation.
Official Statements and Responses
Paul's representatives have criticized Mortensen, claiming he is engaging in a “reprehensible attempt to distract from his own behavior.” They argue that the video release was timed to coincide with their son’s birthday, suggesting malicious intent. Mortensen, on the other hand, has filed for a restraining order against Paul, citing concerns for his safety and that of their child.
Criticism and Opposition
The decision to cast Paul as the lead in *The Bachelorette* had already faced scrutiny due to her past legal issues. Critics, including former contestants, have voiced concerns about the implications of allowing someone with such allegations to lead a dating show. Charity Lawson, a former Bachelorette, stated, “The mental health of contestants should never be compromised so severely for ratings.”
What's Next?
As of now, it remains unclear whether ABC will reschedule the season or if it will be permanently shelved. The network has not provided further details regarding the future of *The Bachelorette* or the status of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*. The situation continues to evolve as investigations proceed and public sentiment remains divided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In light of the newly released video just surfaced 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.” — Disney Entertainment Television Spokesperson
- “Your daughter just got hit in the head by a metal chair!” — Dakota Mortensen, during the altercation with Taylor Frankie Paul.
- “It's sad to see the latest installment of his never-ending, desperate, attention-seeking, destructive campaign to harm Taylor without any regard for the consequences for their child,” — Taylor Frankie Paul's Representative
The cancellation of *The Bachelorette* marks a significant moment in the franchise's history, reflecting the growing scrutiny of personal conduct among reality TV stars.
