ABC pulls The Bachelorette after resurfaced domestic violence footage of lead
Mar 22nd 2026 · United States
ABC and Disney halted the new season headlined by TikTok star Taylor Frankie Paul after leaked 2023 video showing an alleged domestic violence incident resurfaced, triggering sponsor withdrawals, a temporary custody order, and questions about the network's vetting and the franchise's future.
- ABC and Disney paused The Bachelorette and Season 5 of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives after previously unseen 2023 footage surfaced.
- The footage appears to show Taylor Frankie Paul attacking her ex-boyfriend with their child present, prompting dueling statements from both parties.
- A court protective order granted the ex-boyfriend temporary custody of their son.
- Sponsors and appearances including Cinnabon and a Tonight Show booking were canceled amid the backlash.
- Experts say ABC's risky decision to cast Paul, who has prior legal and public controversies and was the first lead outside Bachelor Nation, could produce eight-figure losses and reputational damage.