Why did ABC cancel Taylor Frankie Paul's Bachelorette?

ABC cancels Taylor Frankie Paul’s Bachelorette season

ABC has canceled Taylor Frankie Paul’s season of The Bachelorette after a disturbing video from a 2023 domestic dispute resurfaced.

In the leaked footage, Paul is shown physically attacking her ex, Dakota Mortensen—described in multiple reports as throwing chairs during the altercation. The reports also connect the incident to Paul’s child being present during the fight. ABC’s decision came just days before the season was set to premiere.

What changed for the franchise

Once the video became public, ABC moved to pull the planned season rather than proceed with a high-profile dating-show rollout. Multiple related stories indicate ripple effects for ABC, including disruption to the network’s scheduling and financial expectations tied to the show.

What else has unfolded around Paul

Following the cancellation, Paul and Mortensen have both made public statements through their respective channels.

• Paul has said she would “own her story” and has insisted the video does not show the full context.
• Mortensen has pushed back on Paul’s claims and has pursued legal steps including a restraining order and requests related to custody.

Why it matters

The Bachelorette is a cornerstone franchise for ABC, and the cancellation reflects how quickly broadcasters can end partnerships when serious allegations surface—especially when the content includes direct references to alleged domestic violence and a child being involved. The case has also triggered further scrutiny from social platforms and business partners, according to the coverage.