Bachelorette Season Canceled Amid DV Probe

ABC announced the cancellation of The Bachelorette season 22 on March 19, 2026, citing an ongoing domestic violence investigation involving star Taylor Frankie Paul. The decision followed the release of video footage showing Paul throwing a chair during a confrontation with ex-partner Dakota Mortensen, which led to her 2023 arrest. Paul's spokesperson claimed the video was edited, while Mortensen expressed distress and denied baseless claims.

Further complicating matters, Utah's Draper City Police Department confirmed a domestic assault investigation on February 2026, with allegations made in both directions. Production on Paul's Hulu series was paused. Mortensen subsequently filed for a restraining order against Paul on March 19, 2026, describing her as 'emotionally volatile'.

Contestants on the show expressed their disappointment and solidarity. One source revealed the men were rallying around each other, feeling upset and let down by the situation. Singer-songwriter Clayton Johnson was among the first to publicly address the cancellation, praising the integrity and respect among the male contestants. Other cast members, like Brad Ledford and Richard Van De Water, reacted with brief statements or indirect social media posts.