ABC Cancels Bachelorette Season Following Leaked Domestic Assault Video
In a dramatic turn of events, ABC has abruptly pulled the upcoming season of The Bachelorette featuring Taylor Frankie Paul, star of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. This decision comes after a disturbing video surfaced showing Paul attacking her child's father, Dakota Mortensen, in 2023. The footage emerged amid an ongoing domestic assault investigation, prompting the network to halt production immediately.
Network Statement and Immediate Fallout
A spokesperson for ABC confirmed the cancellation to HuffPost, 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." This move underscores the network's swift response to the serious allegations and the graphic nature of the leaked content.
The video, which was posted by TMZ, was reportedly recorded by Mortensen, Paul's ex-boyfriend and father of her child. In the footage, Paul is seen physically assaulting Mortensen, who can be heard saying, "This is called physical abuse." The situation escalates as she appears to throw chairs at him, with their eight-year-old daughter, Indy, present in the room. At one point, Mortensen exclaims, "Your daughter just got hit in the head by a metal chair," highlighting the potential danger to the child.
Legal Background and Ongoing Investigation
This incident is not Paul's first encounter with legal trouble related to domestic violence. In 2023, she was arrested on assault and domestic violence charges involving Mortensen. She later reached a plea deal, pleading guilty to aggravated assault in exchange for all other charges being dismissed with prejudice. Despite this resolution, the Draper City Police Department in Utah has confirmed to People that an open "domestic assault investigation" into Paul and her ex remains active, adding a layer of legal complexity to the situation.
Response from Paul's Representatives
A spokesman for Taylor Frankie Paul issued a statement to People, criticizing Mortensen's actions. "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," the spokesperson said. They further accused Mortensen of manipulation, noting, "Releasing an old video, which conveniently omits context, on their son's birthday is a reprehensible attempt to distract from his own behavior. Thankfully, the public has seen this act before and knows who he is and sadly, many will recognize this pattern of manipulation, both in his actions on the show, and from their own experiences."
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The cancellation of Paul's season raises significant questions about accountability in reality television and the handling of domestic violence cases in the public eye. ABC's decision to prioritize family support over production reflects a growing sensitivity to such issues in the entertainment industry. As the investigation continues, this case serves as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences that can arise from personal conflicts, especially when children are involved. The public and media are now closely watching how this situation will unfold, with potential impacts on Paul's career and the future of The Bachelorette franchise.
