Taylor Frankie Paul is speaking out following news that her season of “The Bachelorette” has been canceled.
A statement from Paul’s spokesperson obtained by TODAY.com on Thursday, March 19 reads, “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 statement continued, “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.”
Her response comes hours after Disney announced it has pulled Season 22 of “The Bachelorette,” which was set to premiere on ABC March 22 with Paul as the lead, due to an investigation involving “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star and her ex, Dakota Mortensen.
“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,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement sent to TODAY.com.
Disney’s statement is referring to a 2023 video TMZ shared March 19 that shows Paul attacking and throwing chairs at Mortensen in front of her daughter. Mortensen appears to be the one filming the altercation.
A rep for Mortensen did not immediately return TODAY.com’s request for comment.
Additionally, Mortensen filed a petition for a protective order against Paul on March 19 in Salt Lake County, documents obtained by NBC News confirm. A court date has been scheduled for April 7.
Before her “Bachelorette” season was canceled, it was reported earlier this week that filming for “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” had been paused amid an investigation into Paul and Mortensen, who share a 2-year-old son.
Three sources familiar with the situation confirmed to NBC News March 17 that Paul and Mortensen were part of an “ongoing investigation.” The sources commented on the condition of anonymity and did not provide more details.
People reported March 16 that the Draper City Police Department told the outlet Paul and Mortensen were connected to a “domestic assault investigation.” The spokesperson added that “allegations have been made in both directions” and “contact was made with involved parties” on Feb. 24 and 25.
However, the department declined to confirm the report to NBC News. “It is the practice of the department not to release details related to active investigations,” the department said.
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