In 2025, Taylor Frankie Paul was chosen to lead Season 22 of The Bachelorette. Filming commenced with Paul at the helm of the popular reality dating show, which was slated to premiere on March 22. However, a spokesperson from the Draper City Police Department confirmed that a “domestic assault investigation” is ongoing, involving Paul and her former partner, Dakota Mortensen. The spokesperson indicated that allegations were made by both parties, with police contacts occurring on February 24 and 25.
Subsequently, TMZ released a video from 2023 showing a violent altercation where Paul was seen throwing metal chairs at Mortensen.
In response to the unfolding controversy, ABC decided not to broadcast Paul’s season of The Bachelorette. “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,” said a spokesperson from Disney Entertainment Television.
The exact earnings Paul received for her role on The Bachelorette remain undisclosed. However, The Los Angeles Times reported that the network stands to lose at least $70 million due to the cancellation. Meanwhile, it has been revealed that previous stars of the show were offered between $75,000 to $100,000 for a single season.
