ABC Cancels New Season of The Bachelorette
The new season of the dating show The Bachelorette has been cancelled following domestic violence allegations against this season's lead, ABC announced.
The Disney-owned network stated it "made the decision to not move forward with the new season at this time" after footage of Taylor Frankie Paul surfaced on Thursday. The video appeared to show Paul involved in an altercation with her ex-partner in 2023.
Details About Taylor Frankie Paul and Incident
Paul, a TikTok influencer and cast member of Hulu's Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was arrested in connection with the 2023 incident. According to US media reports, she pleaded guilty to aggravated assault.
The new season of The Bachelorette was scheduled to premiere on Sunday. The BBC has reached out to Paul's representatives for comment.
Network's Statement and Programming Plans
A spokesperson for Disney Entertainment Television explained that the decision to pull the season was made "in light of the newly released video just surfaced today," referring to the footage published by TMZ.
ABC has not disclosed what programming will replace the show in its designated timeslot.
Paul's Response and Impact on Other Projects
Prior to the cancellation announcement, Paul appeared on ABC's Good Morning America on Wednesday to promote the series and address the allegations.
"Honestly, it's been a heavy time to see the headlines, especially during this time of 'The Bachelorette' being released," she said.
"It was supposed to be a really exciting time."
Paul also confirmed that production of the upcoming season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, which premiered in 2024, has been paused.
Her co-star Mikayla Matthews commented on social media on Wednesday:
"It was a decision that all of us girls came up with," Matthews said.
"We didn't feel comfortable filming with everything that was happening."
