Reality TV star Taylor Paul’s upcoming season of “The Bachelorette” has been canceled by ABC after a 2023 video surfaced showing her allegedly engaging in domestic violence with her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, who is the father of one of her children. The incident led to Paul being arrested and charged with domestic violence in the presence of a child, for which she pleaded guilty.
The video released Thursday shows an angle from Mortensen’s perspective, capturing Paul attacking him after he claims she launched metal chairs at him. Mortensen also accused Paul of hurting their daughter, who was crying out in distress during the altercation. The police department investigating the incident confirmed that Paul injured her child and is facing additional misdemeanor charges for reckless child abuse.
Paul’s reality show “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” on Hulu has been gaining popularity due to its explosive storyline, which features body-cam footage from Utah police responding to a 911 call from Mortensen. The show’s production was paused earlier this week amid the allegations, and now Paul’s season of “The Bachelorette” has been canceled without airing.
In a statement, Paul’s spokesperson claimed that she is grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security. Paul stated that she has experienced mental and physical abuse in past relationships and is finally taking steps to protect herself and her children from further harm. This incident marks the first time an entire season of “The Bachelorette” has been canceled before it airs, highlighting the show’s sensitivity to allegations of domestic violence.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/2026/03/19/taylor-frankie-paul-bachelorette-canceled