‘Bachelorette’ and ‘Mormon Wives’ Production Paused Amid Domestic Assault Investigation of Taylor Frankie Paul
Production on both The Bachelorette and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has been temporarily halted following allegations of domestic assault involving Taylor Frankie Paul, star of both reality television programs. The Draper City Police Department in Utah confirmed an ongoing investigation into an incident involving Paul and her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen.
Investigation Details
The Draper City Police Department initiated a domestic assault investigation on February 24th and 25th, with contact made with both Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen. According to a statement from the department, “allegations have been made in both directions.” USA Today reports the department respects the privacy of all citizens and will not release details of the active investigation unless it impacts public safety.
‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Production Halt
Filming for the fifth season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives was paused on March 15th due to the unfolding situation. Cosmopolitan reports a source indicated the pause stemmed from “serious stuff happening regarding her past.” Another insider revealed to People that cast members were “overwhelmed” and “tired of Taylor,” leading them to collectively decide to pause production.
Impact on ‘The Bachelorette’ Season
Despite the controversy, the premiere of Taylor Frankie Paul’s season as The Bachelorette, the 22nd season of the show, is still scheduled for March 22nd. USA Today reports that the investigation is not expected to impact the release schedule or press plans for the show. Paul is the first lead in the franchise who has not previously appeared on The Bachelor.
Previous Incident
The current investigation follows a 2023 incident involving Paul and Mortensen, which was documented on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. A leaked video from 2023, reported by People, shows Paul throwing chairs at Mortensen while a child was nearby. Paul has denied being violent, according to a source close to her who spoke with People, and is focused on the premiere of The Bachelorette.
Ongoing Situation
As of March 20, 2026, the investigations are ongoing, and the future of both The Bachelorette season and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives remains uncertain. Business Insider notes that production on Mormon Wives is considered a “temporary” pause, and may resume soon.