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Taylor Frankie Paul is confronting an agonizing moment. The The Bachelorette star broke silence on an ongoing domestic assault investigation with ex Dakota Mortensen, revealing her deep emotional struggle. “I’m struggling for sure,” she admitted during press events, describing it as “like the end of the world.”
🔥 Quick Facts
- Investigation Status: Ongoing domestic assault investigation confirmed by Draper City Police on March 17, 2026
- Allegations Direction: Police stated “allegations have been made in both directions” between Paul and Mortensen
- Production Impact: The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season five filming paused for two to three weeks in February
- Paul’s Statement: 31-year-old star confirmed she’s “struggling” but showed up to Bachelorette promotion events Wednesday
Breaking Silence on a Heavy Time
Taylor Frankie Paul opened up during Good Morning America appearances and press events on March 17. The Bachelorette star said the domestic assault investigation being “broadcasted out there” felt overwhelming. “I’m struggling for sure, but also at the same time I feel like if I don’t show up, then I’m just giving these opportunities away,” she explained to People magazine. Paul described it as “extremely hard” to appear at promotional events while facing such heavy circumstances.
Her honesty resonated with observers tracking the unfolding situation. Paul confirmed her resolve to continue despite personal turmoil, saying “it took everything to get me here today.” She acknowledged the “unfortunate” timing, describing every premiere she’s experienced as one she hasn’t fully enjoyed. Despite these revelations, Paul emphasized the importance of showing up for projects she’d worked hard on.
Taylor Frankie Paul breaks silence on domestic investigation, says ‘I’m struggling’
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The Investigation Timeline and Details
Police confirmed the investigation began after an alleged incident in late February 2026. The Draper City Police Department made contact with both parties on February 24 and 25, according to reports confirmed to People magazine. A spokesperson noted that “allegations have been made in both directions,” indicating both Paul and Mortensen presented claims during the investigation. Few specific details about the alleged dispute have been publicly released.
Paul and Mortensen share a 23-month-old son named Ever. The pair had an on-and-off relationship beginning in summer 2022, months after Paul’s divorce from her ex-husband. Sources indicated Mortensen is primarily focused on “protecting Ever” and maintaining “a good co-parenting relationship” with Paul.
Production Halt and Industry Fallout
| Event | Date/Detail |
| Investigation Contact | February 24-25, 2026 |
| Mormon Wives Pause | 2-3 weeks hiatus announced |
| Cinnabon Partnership | Dropped March 17, 2026 |
| The Bachelorette Premiere | March 22, 2026 on ABC |
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives production paused following the alleged February incident. Sources told E! News that season five remained on hiatus as of mid-March. The timing proved especially challenging, as season four had just premiered earlier that month. Major sponsor Cinnabon announced on March 17 it was cutting ties with both The Bachelorette and Mormon Wives, citing that “recent developments and allegations” no longer aligned with their brand values.
“I think it’s been really difficult and heavy given all the headlines and what’s going on. But I would say I am handling it like any normal human would, like struggling, but trying to show up at the same time.”
— Taylor Frankie Paul, to The Hollywood Reporter
Paul’s Relationship History and Prior Legal Issues
Paul has faced domestic-related legal challenges before. In February 2023, she was arrested by Herriman City Police on three misdemeanor charges related to an altercation with Mortensen. The case was later referred to the Salt Lake City District Attorney’s Office, which charged her with one felony count of aggravated assault and two felony counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child. Paul later stated in a September appearance on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast that all charges had been dropped and she never hurt her daughter.
The 31-year-old and Mortensen have documented their turbulent relationship on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives since the show’s 2024 debut. In season four, Mortensen apologized for his relationship with friend Shinia Powell after Paul left to film The Bachelorette in fall 2025. Their dynamic continued to be marked by conflict, with both acknowledging their relationship as “toxic” while suggesting they still cared for each other.
What’s Next for Taylor Frankie Paul and the Shows?
Taylor Frankie Paul expressed uncertainty about her Mormon Wives future. “It’s hard to say” what comes next, she told Good Morning America, adding it’s “hard to see past” the ongoing investigation at this moment. However, her Bachelorette season premieres March 22 on ABC, and network plans remain undisclosed regarding potential schedule changes. The star continues facing intense public scrutiny while managing personal crisis alongside major career milestones in the entertainment industry.
