**ABC Cancels New Season of The Bachelorette Ahead of Premiere Following Accusations Against Star**
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In a surprising turn of events, ABC has decided to cancel the upcoming season of The Bachelorette just days before its scheduled premiere. The network made this announcement on March 19, citing concerns stemming from a recently released video featuring Taylor Frankie Paul, the season’s star, in a violent encounter with her ex-partner, Dakota Mortensen. The Bachelorette’s 22nd season was set to debut on March 22.
This cancellation comes as a shock to fans and participants alike. Taylor Frankie Paul, who gained fame through her role in the Hulu series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was officially announced as the lead for this season back in September 2025. In her initial reactions to the announcement, Paul expressed excitement but hinted at being unable to fully grasp the reality of her new role until close to filming. “I’m just thinking about it, and it’s not real… until I think the limo is pulling up,” she stated in an interview.
However, the excitement surrounding the new season quickly dissipated with the emergence of troubling footage released by TMZ. The video depicts Paul physically confronting Mortensen while he records the incident, during which he describes the altercation as “physical abuse.” The footage also shows Paul throwing metallic chairs, which resulted in her daughter being hit. Such distressing visuals prompted ABC’s swift action.
A spokesperson for Disney Entertainment Television confirmed the decision to halt production, noting, “In light of the newly released video that 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.” This statement indicates a prioritisation of well-being over entertainment in light of the alarming situation.
Paul’s history adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Earlier in February 2023, she faced allegations of domestic violence and was arrested for hitting Mortensen in the presence of her children. Following the charges, she entered a plea of guilty in abeyance to aggravated assault, allowing for the potential dismissal of this charge if she meets specific conditions. The other charges against her were reportedly dismissed, but ongoing investigations into their domestic disputes continue in Utah.
As the situation unfolds, the future of The Bachelorette franchise remains uncertain. The previous season, which featured former Bachelor contestant Jenn Tran, wrapped up in September 2024, and since then, there has been a noticeable production delay leading to heightened scrutiny regarding the show’s viability. Fellow contestants expressed their surprise at the hiatus and uncertainty surrounding the series, with Tran admitting that she had no insights into the reasons for this unusual pause.
In light of the current developments, ABC has shifted its programming plans. Instead of airing The Bachelorette on March 22 as initially intended, viewers will be treated to a re-run of an episode of American Idol that aired earlier in March. This change reflects the network’s swift adaptation to the unsatisfying circumstances surrounding the reality dating show.
With the cancellation now official, speculation mounts about the direction the franchise may take going forward. For many, The Bachelorette has been a cornerstone of reality TV programming; however, the network’s commitment to addressing serious allegations associated with its stars suggests a new era of accountability within the industry.
As the situation with Paul and Mortensen continues to evolve, fans and contestants alike will be watching closely. Those affected by domestic violence are reminded of available resources and support hotlines, emphasising the importance of care and assistance in troubling times.
In conclusion, the abrupt cancellation of The Bachelorette raises important discussions regarding the responsibility of media outlets in the face of serious personal issues involving their stars. With no immediate plans for the franchise’s future, audiences are left reflecting on the changing landscape of reality television and its broader societal implications.