Taylor Frankie Paul Hit With Third Domestic Violence Probe — As 'Bachelorette' Meltdown Sparks $50M Fallout
New investigation lands as ABC pulls her season, and insiders warn the reality TV disaster could cost Disney tens of millions.
Reality star Taylor Frankie Paul is under investigation once again – with Utah authorities now probing what could be a third alleged domestic violence incident involving her and former partner Dakota Mortensen.
Police in West Jordan confirmed they are actively investigating claims tied to an alleged 2024 incident, which were only recently reported in February 2026. Detectives are now reviewing video evidence and interviewing those involved, though no charges have been filed at this stage.
The department stressed the case is being handled “in the same manner as any other investigation,” despite intense public scrutiny surrounding the couple and their reality TV profile.
According to officials, the investigation currently relies heavily on Mortensen’s account, with authorities yet to interview Paul directly. Police have, however, spoken with her attorney and have requested that she either provide a written statement or sit down for questioning.
The latest probe adds to a growing legal cloud over the pair’s volatile relationship – one that has already played out both on-screen and in court.
Paul previously pleaded guilty to aggravated assault following a 2023 altercation involving Mortensen, an incident that became central to the first season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. She is currently serving a three-year probation sentence.
The new allegation also comes on the heels of a separate domestic assault investigation in Draper, Utah, tied to a February 2026 incident. Authorities there have confirmed that “allegations have been made in both directions,” further complicating the legal picture.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill has already requested investigative materials related to the most recent claims, noting that any potential charges could carry enhanced penalties due to Paul’s prior case.
The legal turmoil has now spilled directly into her television career – with ABC abruptly pulling her upcoming season of The Bachelorette just days before its scheduled premiere.
The decision followed the release of leaked footage showing Paul allegedly throwing metal chairs at Mortensen during a 2023 incident, with her young daughter present.
The fallout has been immediate and severe.
Behind the scenes, insiders say the cancellation has triggered a financial crisis for the network and its parent companies, including The Walt Disney Company.
Sources claim Paul had already completed filming, meaning she is still entitled to her full salary — reportedly in the low-to-mid six figures – under a contract tied to services rendered.
But that payout may be the least of the damage.
Industry insiders estimate the total cost of the scrapped season could reach $50 million or more once production expenses, marketing, and advertiser “make-goods” are factored in.
“It’s a nightmare,” one source said, adding that newly appointed Disney executive Debra O’Connell is now tasked with managing the fallout.
For Paul, the situation remains deeply contested.
A spokesperson for the 31-year-old has framed her as a victim of “extensive mental and physical abuse,” stating she is now taking steps to protect herself and her children.
Mortensen, meanwhile, has denied the allegations against him, calling the situation “deeply upsetting” and dismissing claims about his conduct as “baseless.”
Filming for future seasons of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has reportedly been paused as investigations continue – leaving the show and Paul’s future in it hanging in the balance.
For now, the case remains open, the facts still being assembled, and the stakes rising on every front.
Because this is no longer just a reality TV storyline.
It’s a legal fight, a custody battle, and a network-level crisis – all unfolding at the same time.
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