Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen: Custody Battle and ‘Bachelorette’ Cancellation

A contentious custody battle between Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen has escalated, leading to a protective order filing and the cancellation of Paul’s appearance on ABC’s The Bachelorette. The situation, rooted in a history of legal issues and public drama, has drawn attention to allegations of domestic violence and concerns for the well-being of their child.

Protective Order Filed

Dakota Mortensen filed a protective order against Taylor Frankie Paul in Utah on Thursday, March 20, 2026, according to court documents obtained by People, TMZ and NBC News. The filing, initially returned for correction, details incidents Mortensen claims occurred on February 23 and 24, describing the situation as “chaotic” and “frightening,” and alleging Paul was “emotionally volatile.”

Mortensen also stated in the filing that he was unable to safely leave during a disagreement on February 24, and that their son, Ever, was left inside the home under Paul’s care during the disturbance, citing concerns for his safety and well-being. He is requesting temporary custody of Ever and that Paul abstain from alcohol and drug utilize during her parenting time. A hearing is scheduled for April 7.

‘Bachelorette’ Cancellation and Paul’s Response

Following the release of a video by TMZ allegedly showing a 2023 domestic violence incident involving Paul and Mortensen, ABC decided to pull Season 22 of The Bachelorette. Paul, who stars in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, released a statement through her spokesperson expressing gratitude for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety.

“Taylor is remarkably grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety. 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 read. She also highlighted the struggles faced by women in similar situations, stating, “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.”

Mortensen’s Response and Prior History

Mortensen responded to the allegations, stating, “As anyone who has seen the video will understand, this is a deeply upsetting situation.” He denied the claims made against him and emphasized his focus on his son’s safety. His representative addressed reports of a domestic assault investigation, stating that Mortensen’s priority is protecting their son, Ever, and that he has consistently sought a positive co-parenting relationship.

The Draper City Police Department has confirmed an open “domestic assault investigation” regarding Paul and Mortensen, noting that “allegations have been made in both directions” and that contact was made with involved parties on February 24th, and 25th. Details of the investigation remain private.

Paul and Mortensen’s relationship began before the premiere of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives on Hulu in September 2024. Their relationship followed Paul’s divorce from Tate Paul due to a “soft swinging” sex scandal. Prior to the reveal’s debut, the couple faced challenges, including a domestic violence arrest, before welcoming their son, Ever. Paul also shares two other children, Indy and Ocean, with Tate Paul.

Miranda Hope Speaks Out

Miranda Hope, a cast member of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, publicly addressed the situation on Instagram, expressing her distress and emphasizing the seriousness of domestic violence and abuse. She stated her support for the children involved and hoped they would be safe, supported, and surrounded by love.