In a candid interview, Taylor Frankie Paul has revealed how her role as the lead in the latest season of “The Bachelorette” has provided her the opportunity to move beyond a challenging chapter in her life in Utah. Speaking to PEOPLE during a press preview on March 17, the television personality expressed her feelings about the “toxicity” she has faced, especially in light of recent domestic violence allegations involving her ex-boyfriend.
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Paul, 31, who is set to star in the 22nd season of the popular ABC dating show premiering on March 22, described her decision to join the series as an “immediate” affirmation. She stated, “It was like the best thing I could have done,” emphasising that she wishes to distance herself from the constrictive environment of Utah.
The reality star, known for her appearance in “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” reflected on the transformative experience of meeting a variety of individuals, stating that it has helped her not only engage in new dating experiences but also adjust to a lifestyle removed from the influences she previously experienced in Utah. “I think it was like the best thing and something I’ve never done before, so I have no regrets,” she added, highlighting her desire for personal growth.
A crucial aspect of her decision to join the show was her children. Paul specified that her “one condition” for participating was to ensure that she could still be involved in their lives. She shares an eight-year-old daughter, Indy, and a five-year-old son, Ocean, with her ex-husband, Tate Paul, as well as a one-year-old son, Ever, from her previous relationship with Dakota Mortensen.
The conversation with PEOPLE came on the heels of revelations about Paul and Mortensen being subjects of a domestic assault investigation. A spokesperson from the Draper City Police Department confirmed that allegations had emerged in both directions during an incident that occurred between February 24 and 25. Sources close to Paul disputed claims of her being violent with Mortensen during the encounter, stating that she remains committed to her upcoming role on “The Bachelorette.”
Paul voiced her distress at the timing of these allegations, admitting that her “heart hurts” to see such reports surfacing just before her reality television debut. “Just the timing is hard, and it’s a big deal,” she lamented. “I feel like every premiere that I’ve experienced, I’ve never enjoyed fully, so this is another one.” She further conveyed her struggle but also reinforced her determination to commemorate her achievements, stating that she felt compelled to show up despite the difficulties.
In light of the domestic violence allegations, reports indicate that production for the upcoming season of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” has been paused. The cast members have collectively decided to keep their distance from Paul while the situation unfolds. An insider remarked that “none of the women want to be associated with her,” prompting a unanimous decision to halt filming.
This recent controversy marks another chapter in Paul’s tumultuous history, following her 2023 arrest connected to a domestic violence incident involving Mortensen, where she was accused of throwing a chair during an argument. This altercation not only strained her relationship but also led to her facing charges that included assault and domestic violence in the presence of a child—a clear reflection of the turmoil in her private life.
As the premiere of “The Bachelorette” approaches, Taylor Frankie Paul is at a crossroads, navigating personal challenges while striving to embrace new beginnings. As she prepares to step into the limelight once again, she remains focused on the opportunities ahead, eager to redefine her narrative beyond the confines of her past.
For those affected by domestic violence, support can be found through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, which offers confidential assistance 24/7.