72.0% chaos · heated culture clash 4 sources 16h ago

‘Bachelorette’ Star Taylor Frankie Paul Throws Bar Stools at Ex Dakota Mortensen in Leaked 2023 Video, Child Near Domestic Incident

What happened

ABC has canceled the upcoming season of 'The Bachelorette' starring Taylor Frankie Paul after a 2023 video surfaced showing her throwing bar stools at her ex-partner Dakota Mortensen during a domestic incident with a child present. The video was leaked just days before the season was set to air. Paul's representatives have responded, calling the timing of the leak deliberate and claiming it lacks important context.

Why people care

Paul had gained significant attention as a star of Hulu's 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' before being selected as the Bachelorette lead. The incident raises serious questions about network vetting processes and the responsibilities of reality TV stars, particularly when children's safety is involved.

The takes

Paul's team says

The video's release is strategically timed and lacks crucial context about the situation. They characterize the leak as a calculated attempt to overshadow Dakota Mortensen's own behavior in the relationship. The timing coinciding with their son's birthday is particularly cruel and manipulative.

Critics say

The video clearly shows concerning behavior that raises questions about Paul's suitability as a reality TV star and role model. ABC made the right decision to cancel the season given the serious nature of the domestic incident. The presence of a child during the altercation makes the situation particularly troubling regardless of any missing context.

Sources