Full Breakdown
ABC Cancels Taylor Frankie Paul's Season of *The Bachelorette* Amid Domestic Violence Allegations
3/21/2026, 12:01:57 AM
Cancellation Announcement and Context
ABC has canceled Taylor Frankie Paul's season of *The Bachelorette*, which was set to premiere on March 22, following the release of a video depicting a violent altercation between Paul and her ex-partner, Dakota Mortensen. The network announced the decision on March 19, stating, “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,” according to a spokesperson from Disney Entertainment Television.
The video, released by TMZ, shows Paul throwing chairs at Mortensen during a domestic dispute in 2023, with their daughter, Indy, present and heard crying in the background. This incident is part of an ongoing domestic violence investigation involving both parties, as confirmed by the Draper City Police Department in Utah.
Background on Domestic Violence Allegations
Paul's legal troubles began in 2023 when she was arrested for domestic violence against Mortensen, facing charges of aggravated assault, criminal mischief, and domestic violence in the presence of a child. Although she pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, the other charges were dismissed. The recent video has reignited scrutiny over her past and the nature of her relationship with Mortensen, with allegations reportedly made in both directions.
A spokesperson for Paul claimed that the video “conveniently omits context” and characterized Mortensen's actions as part of a “never-ending, desperate, attention-seeking, destructive campaign to harm Taylor without any regard for the consequences for their child.” Mortensen, in turn, has denied any wrongdoing, stating, “I am focusing on our son and his safety, and hope that Taylor will do the same.”
Impact on Related Productions
The fallout from the cancellation has extended beyond *The Bachelorette*. Production on the fifth season of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*, which features Paul, has also been paused due to the ongoing investigation. Paul expressed her distress over the situation, stating, “It’s been a heavy time to see the headlines, especially during this time of *The Bachelorette* being released.”
Official Statements and Reactions
In her statement following the cancellation, Paul expressed gratitude for ABC's support, emphasizing her focus on her family's safety and security. She noted, “After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation, Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser.”
Critics have pointed out the network's decision to cast Paul as the lead of *The Bachelorette* despite her known history of domestic violence, raising questions about the ethics of such a choice. Experts have suggested that the casting decision may have been influenced by the desire to attract a new audience, particularly given Paul's significant following on social media.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While both Paul and Mortensen have made allegations against each other, the specifics of the ongoing investigation remain unclear. The Draper City Police Department has stated that allegations have been made in both directions, but further details have not been disclosed due to the active investigation.
What's Next
As of now, the future of both *The Bachelorette* and *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* remains uncertain. ABC has not indicated whether Paul's season will air at a later date, and the production pause on *Mormon Wives* raises further questions about the show's future. The situation continues to evolve, with both parties navigating the complexities of their relationship and the public scrutiny that accompanies their reality TV fame.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, resources are available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
