'The Bachelorette' 2026 Cancelled as Taylor Frankie Paul Faces Psych Evaluation Order Amid Ongoing Investigation

Disney Entertainment and ABC have cancelled the upcoming 2026 season of The Bachelorette days before its scheduled premiere on 22 March. The decision was announced on 19 March following the release of a video relating to a 2023 incident involving the season's lead, Taylor Frankie Paul.

In a statement reported by the Associated Press, a spokesperson for Disney Entertainment Television said the network would 'not move forward with the new season' after the video surfaced, adding that its focus would be on 'supporting the family'.

The footage, first published by TMZ, appears to show Paul involved in a physical altercation with her former partner, Dakota Mortensen. The video relates to an incident for which Paul previously pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and was placed on probation.

2023 Incident Video and Charges

Details of the incident have also been reported by People, which said the footage shows Paul throwing objects, including metal chairs, during the altercation while her daughter was present in the room and could be heard crying.

According to court documents cited by the publication, a child was struck during the incident when chairs were thrown. The case resulted in Paul entering a plea agreement in 2023. She was placed on a three-year probation period, with several additional charges dropped as part of the deal. The probation is ongoing.

In a previous interview, Paul said she 'never intentionally did anything' to harm her children and described the incident as a difficult period in her life.

Investigation Prompts Court Orders

Separately, authorities in Utah have confirmed there is an ongoing investigation involving both Paul and Mortensen following reports made in February 2026.

As part of that process, both individuals have been ordered by a court to undergo psychological evaluations. These assessments are commonly used in cases involving domestic disputes where child welfare concerns may be considered, and can inform decisions related to custody, supervision or safeguarding measures.

Officials have not released details about the current living arrangements of the children involved. Representatives for Paul said she had experienced 'mental and physical abuse' over a number of years and is now prioritising her family's safety. Mortensen has denied those claims through his own representatives.

Season Cancelled, Filming Paused

The cancellation of The Bachelorette followed the release of the video and renewed attention surrounding the case. The season had already been filmed and was scheduled to air within days.

Production has also been paused on the Hulu series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, in which Paul appears. Reports indicate that filming was halted amid concerns raised by cast members following the developments.

ABC has not announced whether the cancelled season will be rescheduled or replaced, though changes to its programming are expected.

Case Review and Legal Steps

The Salt Lake County District Attorney's office is reviewing the latest developments in relation to Paul's existing probation, though no further charges have been confirmed.

As the investigation continues, court proceedings and the outcome of the psychological evaluations are expected to determine next steps in the case, including any potential impact on custody arrangements or legal conditions tied to probation.