In brief
ABC has announced the cancellation of the new season of The Bachelorette due to domestic violence allegations against star Taylor Frankie Paul. Footage from an altercation with her ex-partner prompted the decision, as Paul previously pleaded guilty to aggravated assault. Scheduled to premiere soon, the network has not yet disclosed alternative programming for the timeslot. Paul's involvement in promoting the series prior to the cancellation reflects upon the personal and professional turmoil surrounding her recently.
The new season of dating show The Bachelorette has been cancelled following domestic violence allegations against this season's star, ABC has said.
The Disney-owned network stated that it made the decision not to move forward with the new season at this time after footage emerged on Thursday showing Taylor Frankie Paul in an altercation with her ex-partner in 2023.
Paul, a TikTok influencer known for her role in Hulu's Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was arrested in connection with the incident last year and has pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, according to US media reports.
The new season was set to premiere on Sunday. The BBC has reached out to Paul's representatives for comments.
A spokesperson for Disney Entertainment Television indicated that the decision was influenced by the newly released video, which was published by TMZ.
ABC did not specify what will air during the show's scheduled timeslot instead.
Prior to the cancellation announcement, Paul appeared on ABC's Good Morning America on Wednesday to promote the series, during which she addressed the allegations, stating, Honestly, it's been a heavy time to see the headlines, especially during this time of 'The Bachelorette' being released. It was supposed to be a really exciting time.
In the light of these events, Paul also confirmed that production for the fifth season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has been paused. Her co-star, Mikayla Matthews, expressed on social media that the decision to halt filming was a collective choice due to discomfort with the ongoing situation.
Initially gaining fame in the #MomTok community, Paul has been known for her honest and informative content surrounding motherhood, and she previously garnered headlines after announcing her divorce and open marriage discussions.
