ABC Faces $28 Million Loss After Cancelling Bachelorette Season Over Domestic Violence Video
ABC's abrupt decision to scrap Taylor Frankie Paul's season of The Bachelorette just days before its scheduled premiere has resulted in a staggering financial blow of $28 million. The network confirmed the cancellation on Thursday after a shocking 2023 video surfaced showing Paul, 31, attacking her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, 33, with her minor daughter present.
Production Costs and Immediate Fallout
According to an insider speaking to the Daily Mail, each of the 13 episodes cost over $2 million to produce, contributing to the substantial loss. Disney Entertainment Television, which owns ABC, released a statement confirming the cancellation, stating the company had 'made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time.' The 22nd season of the reality romance show was set to begin airing on Sunday, March 22.
Disney emphasized that its 'focus is on supporting the family' following the cancellation. Representatives for Paul and ABC have been contacted for further comment, with Paul expressing gratitude through her representative for ABC's support as she prioritizes her family's safety and security.
Video Evidence and Legal Implications
The cancellation came hours after TMZ published the 2023 video, which depicts Paul repeatedly attacking Mortensen. In the footage, Paul is seen throwing a stool at Mortensen while her daughter, Indy, now eight, is present and crying. Mortensen, who filmed the incident, can be heard stating, 'This is called physical abuse,' and later noting, 'Your daughter just got hit in the head by a metal chair.'
This video was crucial evidence in a 2023 case where Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill informed TMZ that prosecutors are evaluating how new assault allegations may affect Paul's ongoing probation from that case. Gill stated, 'We have received the police report for the new allegations, and it is our understanding the case is being screened by the Draper City prosecutor.'
Conflicting Statements and Allegations
Paul's representative issued a statement alleging that she suffered 'extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation' in silence for years. The statement claimed Paul is now gaining strength to face her accuser and protect her children, highlighting that many women suffer silently from aggressive ex-partners.
In contrast, Mortensen denied the 'baseless claims' about himself and their relationship in a statement to the Daily Mail, calling the situation 'deeply upsetting' and focusing on their son's safety. He recently filed for a protective order in Utah, citing a new alleged incident in February where Paul allegedly choked him, leading to a physical confrontation.
Broader Impact on Productions and Partnerships
The scandal has extended beyond The Bachelorette, affecting other projects. Filming for Hulu's The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, where Paul gained fame, has been paused due to serious issues involving her. A cast member confirmed the pause, and the Draper City Police Department acknowledged an open domestic assault investigation into Paul and Mortensen, with allegations made in both directions.
Brand partnerships have also been impacted. Cinnabon announced on March 17 that it was terminating its collaboration with both Paul and the ABC show, citing that recent developments no longer align with its brand values. This move underscores the wider repercussions of the controversy on commercial interests.
Ongoing Investigations and Family Dynamics
Mortensen's protective order filing includes requests for temporary custody of their two-year-old son, Ever, and prohibitions on Paul drinking or using drugs during parenting time. The petition references Paul's 2023 arrest, adding complexity to the legal proceedings.
Paul's representative criticized the release of the old video as a 'reprehensible attempt' to distract from Mortensen's behavior, particularly on their son's birthday. However, the resurfaced footage has intensified public and legal scrutiny, with authorities continuing to assess the implications for Paul's probation and any new charges.
The cancellation of The Bachelorette season highlights the significant financial and reputational risks networks face when controversies involving cast members emerge, especially those related to domestic violence. As investigations proceed, the focus remains on the safety and well-being of the families involved, with ABC absorbing a multi-million dollar loss in the process.
