In brief
ABC has decided to pull the new season of The Bachelorette after domestic violence allegations against Taylor Frankie Paul surfaced, including footage of an altercation with her ex-partner Dakota Mortensen. Paul, a TikTok influencer, had previously been arrested for aggravated assault. Statements from both parties indicate a focus on prioritizing their family's safety.
The new season of dating show The Bachelorette has been cancelled following domestic violence allegations against this season's star, ABC has said.
The network stated it made the decision to not move forward with the new season after footage of Taylor Frankie Paul emerged on Thursday showing her in an altercation with her ex-partner Dakota Mortensen in 2023.
Paul, a TikTok influencer who also stars in Hulu's Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was arrested in relation to the incident in 2023 and pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, according to US media reports.
Paul's spokesperson mentioned that she is prioritising her family's safety and preparing to own and share her story.
In a statement, Mortensen, the father of Paul's third child, indicated he is focusing on our son and his safety.
A spokesperson for Disney, which owns ABC, remarked that the decision to pull the season was made in light of the newly released video just surfaced today, referring to the footage that was published by TMZ.
The new season of The Bachelorette was set to premiere on Sunday. Details about what ABC plans to air during the show's timeslot have not been provided.
Before the cancellation, Paul had appeared on ABC's Good Morning America to promote the series, during which she addressed the allegations against her, stating: Honestly, it's been a heavy time to see the headlines, especially during this time of 'The Bachelorette' being released. It was supposed to be a really exciting time.
Paul also confirmed that production has been paused for the upcoming fifth season of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, which first premiered in 2024. Mikayla Matthews, Paul’s co-star, noted on social media that the decision to halt production was a collective choice among the cast as they felt uncomfortable filming amidst the ongoing situation.
Paul became an influencer within the #MomTok community on TikTok, where mothers often share parenting content. Her personal life drew significant attention in 2022 when she revealed her divorce and subsequent relationship dynamics that had been showcased on the Hulu series.
