ABC is currently discussing a mid-July premiere for the upcoming season of The Bachelorette featuring Taylor Frankie Paul, according to production sources. The network previously pulled the season from its schedule in March following reports of a domestic dispute. Editors have continued post-production work throughout the hiatus, and network executives are currently conducting audience testing to gauge viewer sentiment toward the lead.
Why was the season initially pulled from the schedule?
ABC removed the season from its lineup in March following the release of video footage showing a physical altercation between Taylor Frankie Paul and her then-partner, Dakota Mortensen. According to reporting by TMZ, the video depicted Paul throwing metal barstools during a heated argument. The incident followed a production pause on her other reality project, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, which was also stalled due to concerns regarding the volatility of the couple’s relationship.

Reality television production often continues in “post-production” limbo even when a show is officially pulled from a network schedule. Sources confirm that editors kept working on Paul’s season during the months it remained off-air, signaling that the network maintained an option to reinstate the project.
How is the network evaluating the show’s return?
Network executives are utilizing audience testing to determine how viewers respond to Paul following her recent public efforts to address her personal conduct. According to sources speaking with TMZ, the network has monitored Paul’s social media activity, where she has documented her focus on personal growth and healing since the March controversy. This internal testing is a standard industry practice used to mitigate reputational risk before committing to a firm premiere date.
What is the current status of the legal situation?
Legal proceedings between Paul and Mortensen remain active. According to public records, both individuals have secured restraining orders against one another. A Utah judge has mandated that the pair work through a custody dispute as part of their ongoing legal requirements. The resolution of these personal matters is a significant factor in the network’s final decision-making process regarding the broadcast of the season.
Pro Tip: Tracking Reality TV Trends
When networks face “scandal-related” delays, they often shift from a standard broadcast rollout to a more cautious, data-driven release. Keep an eye on network social media channels for “sizzle reels” or “sneak peeks,” which are typically released 14 days before a premiere to test audience engagement levels before the first episode drops.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will Taylor Frankie Paul’s season premiere?
While not yet locked, production sources indicate the network is targeting a mid-July premiere. - Why was the season delayed?
The season was pulled in March following a publicized domestic dispute involving Paul and her ex-partner, Dakota Mortensen. - Is the show still being edited?
Yes, editors continued to work on the episodes throughout the hiatus, according to industry sources.
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