Warning: This article contains discussion of domestic violence which some readers may find distressing.
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Taylor Frankie Paul's representative has issued a statement after her already-filmed season of The Bachelorette was canceled, just days before it was set to premiere.
The reality TV star, 31, was supposed to be this season's bachelorette, with the first episode due to premiere this Sunday (22 March) on ABC.
However, a Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson said in a statement yesterday (19 March): "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."
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It comes after allegations have been made against Paul involving a domestic incident.
A Draper City Police Department representative previously confirmed that a 'domestic abuse investigation' had been opened earlier this week involving Paul and her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen.
The spokesperson said that 'allegations have been made in both directions', and that 'contact was made with involved parties on [Feb] 24th and 25th'.
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star was previously arrested on suspicion of domestic violence in 2023 following an argument with Mortensen, 33.
At the time, the mum-of-three faced misdemeanor charges of assault, criminal mischief, and commission of domestic violence in the presence of a child. However, she struck a deal in which she pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault and had the other charges dismissed.
On Thursday (19 March), footage was released by TMZ allegedly showing what led to the arrest, prompting ABC to pull Paul's season of The Bachelorette.
Now, breaking her silence on the show being cancelled, a spokesperson for Paul said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE Magazine: "Taylor is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security.
"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 and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm."
The spokesperson added: "There are too many women who are suffering in silence as they survive aggressive, jealous ex-partners who refuse to let them move on with their lives.
"Taylor has remained silent out of fear of further abuse, retaliation, and public shaming. She is currently exploring all of her options, seeking support, and preparing to own and share her story."
Paul also appeared on Good Morning America on Wednesday (18 Mar) in her first televised interview since the 'domestic incident' news broke.
She said: "When your life is broadcasted out there in these headlines, it’s like the end of the world, that’s what it feels like. I’m not going to lie."
The reality TV star added: "I will say I’ve been here before and I got through it, and I’ve shared my story and my light, and I’m hoping I can do that again."
Paul is a mother of three children - she shares her two oldest with her ex-husband Tate Paul, Indy, eight, and Ocean, five, and her youngest, Ever, one, with her ex, Mortensen.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone. You can talk in confidence to the national domestic violence helpline Refuge on 0808 2000 247, available 24/7, or via live chat, available 10am-10pm, Monday to Friday.
Topics: Reality TV, News, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Crime, Entertainment, TV And Film
Madison Burgess