ABC has officially cancelled the upcoming 22nd season of The Bachelorette just three days before its scheduled premiere. The decision, announced Thursday, follows the release of a graphic video showing lead star Taylor Frankie Paul in a violent physical altercation with her former partner, Dakota Mortensen. ‘The Bachelorette’ Star Katie Thurston Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis, Shares Health Update on Insta and Pens ‘I Am Ready To Fight This’ (View Post).

The move is considered unprecedented for the franchise, as the entire season had already finished filming and was set to debut on Sunday, March 22.

Taylor Frankie Paul's Viral Footage Leads to Network Pullout

The controversy centres on a three-minute video obtained and published by TMZ on Thursday. The footage, which dates back to a 2023 incident in Utah, shows Paul kicking and punching Mortensen before throwing several metal barstools in his direction.

In the video, Mortensen can be heard telling Paul that her young daughter was struck by one of the chairs. The child is heard crying and screaming throughout the duration of the clip.

Taylor Frankie Paul's Viral Video

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TMZ (@tmz_tv)

A spokesperson for Disney Entertainment Television, which owns ABC, issued a statement shortly after the video surfaced: "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."

History of Legal Trouble and New Investigations

While the leaked video pertains to a 2023 arrest for which Paul previously pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, it arrives amid fresh legal scrutiny. Earlier this week, police in Draper City, Utah, confirmed they are currently investigating a new "domestic assault investigation" involving both Paul and Mortensen following incidents on February 24 and 25, 2026.

According to authorities, allegations have been made by both parties. This ongoing investigation had already led to a production pause on the fifth season of Paul’s other reality series, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Responses from Both Sides

Following the cancellation, a representative for Paul released a statement claiming the influencer had been a victim of "extensive mental and physical abuse" for years. The statement characterised the release of the video as a "reprehensible attempt" to distract from Mortensen's own behaviour.

Mortensen has denied these claims, stating through his own representative that he is focused on the safety of their son and categorically denying the "baseless claims" regarding their relationship.

Fallout for 'The Bachelorette'

The cancellation has left the show’s contestants and fans in a state of shock. Sources close to the production report that the men who participated in the season feel "blindsided" and "betrayed," having spent months filming the now-scrapped episodes. Kerala Court Orders Return of Dileep’s Passport After Acquittal in Actress Assault Case.

ABC has not yet announced if it will air a replacement season or if the franchise will remain on hiatus. Brand partners, including Cinnabon and Meta, have already moved to sever ties with Paul following the release of the footage.

TruLY Score by LatestLY
Rating:3

TruLY Score 3 – Believable; Needs Further Research | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 3 on LatestLY, this article appears believable but may need additional verification. It is based on reporting from news websites or verified journalists (TMZ), but lacks supporting official confirmation. Readers are advised to treat the information as credible but continue to follow up for updates or confirmations

Men's Helpline Numbers:

Milaap: 9990588768; All India Men Helpline: 9911666498; Men Welfare Trust: 8882498498.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 20, 2026 12:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).