Dramatic Video Release Sparks Cancellation of Reality TV Show

A disturbing video of a physical altercation between a reality TV star and her ex-boyfriend has led to the cancellation of her upcoming show, leaving many to wonder what really happened

Background of the Incident

A new video released on Thursday appears to show Taylor Frankie Paul attacking her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, in front of her daughter three years ago. The video, published by TMZ, seems to be recorded by Mortensen and captures Paul pushing and kicking him as he repeatedly asks her to stop. According to TMZ, the recording reportedly portrays an incident in which Paul was arrested in 2023.

Aftermath and Consequences

Shortly after the video was published, a Disney spokesperson confirmed that the network had pulled Taylor’s season of “The Bachelorette,” which was set to premiere on Sunday. The spokesperson stated that the decision was made in light of the newly released video and that the focus is on supporting the family. On Thursday, Mortensen filed for a protective order against Paul through his attorney, but the filing was sent back because it was incomplete, and an amended petition was requested, according to Salt Lake County District Court records.

Reactions and Responses

Paul was charged with assault, criminal mischief, and domestic violence in the presence of a child for the 2023 incident. Court records indicate that Paul pleaded guilty in abeyance to an aggravated assault charge in August 2025, and the other four charges were dismissed with prejudice. In a phone interview with NBC News on Thursday, Paul said, “I will have my truth.” A spokesperson for Paul stated that she is "gaining strength to face her accuser and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm." The spokesperson also claimed that Paul has remained silent out of fear of further abuse, retaliation, and public shaming, and that she is currently exploring all her options, seeking support, and preparing to own and share her story.

Context and Controversy

The video of the incident also shows Paul throwing three barstools at Mortensen. Shortly after the stool is thrown, her daughter, who was nearby on the sofa during the fight, can be heard crying. Mortensen can be heard saying, “This is called physical abuse,” and “Your daughter is right here.” The video is mentioned in the 2023 indictment against Paul, which notes that Mortensen had “redness and swelling around his eyes, swelling on his elbow, scratches on his fingers, and a laceration on his neck” from the incident. The indictment also notes that in the video, Paul’s daughter is struck in the head while she was lying on the couch. A spokesperson for Paul told NBC News that the recording is the “latest installment of [Mortensen’s] never-ending, desperate, attention-seeking, destructive campaign to harm Taylor without any regard for the consequences for their child.”

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