Trista Sutter Reacts to Taylor Frankie Paul's Bachelorette Scandal

The first Bachelorette weighs in on ABC pulling the season and the franchise's uncertain future.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:36pm

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An abstract close-up image of shattered glass and glittering sequins, capturing the fragility and glamour of the Bachelorette franchise in the wake of the Taylor Frankie Paul controversy.The Bachelorette franchise faces an uncertain future as the Taylor Frankie Paul scandal exposes the cracks in the show's glossy veneer.Los Angeles Today

Trista Sutter, the original Bachelorette, shares her thoughts on ABC's decision to pull Taylor Frankie Paul's season of the show just days before its premiere. Sutter expresses empathy for Paul amid the ongoing domestic violence investigation involving her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, while also acknowledging the potential impact on the future of the Bachelorette franchise.

Why it matters

Trista Sutter's perspective as the first Bachelorette provides unique insight into the franchise's history and significance. Her reaction highlights the complex issues surrounding the Paul scandal and the broader implications for the show's future.

The details

ABC pulled Taylor Frankie Paul's season of The Bachelorette just three days before its scheduled premiere, following the release of footage showing Paul throwing chairs at her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen while a child was nearby. Sutter says she is 'just trying to show people grace' and acknowledges 'there's a lot of growth that needs to happen' for Paul. Sutter also addressed speculation that the franchise could be coming to an end, saying she is 'hoping that that's not the case' as the show 'brought me my family'.

  • On March 19, 2026, ABC pulled Taylor Frankie Paul's season of The Bachelorette just three days before its scheduled premiere.
  • On March 26, 2026, Trista Sutter shared her reaction to the news at the iHeartRadio Music Awards.

The players

Trista Sutter

The first-ever Bachelorette, who has been married to her suitor Ryan Sutter for 22 years.

Taylor Frankie Paul

The 31-year-old star of the pulled season of The Bachelorette, who is currently under investigation for a domestic violence incident involving her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen.

Dakota Mortensen

Taylor Frankie Paul's ex-boyfriend, who is involved in the ongoing domestic violence investigation.

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What they’re saying

“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family.”

— Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson

“Everyone goes through stuff, everyone makes mistakes. Yes, there's a child involved, and that's where my heart hurts the worst.”

— Trista Sutter, First Bachelorette

“Well, I mean, it's just shocking and sad. It's what brought me my family, or at least introduced me to Ryan, so we could create a family. So if it's all over it will make me sad.”

— Trista Sutter, First Bachelorette

What’s next

The domestic violence investigation involving Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen is ongoing in Utah.

The takeaway

The Taylor Frankie Paul scandal has shaken the Bachelorette franchise, raising concerns about its future. As the first Bachelorette, Trista Sutter's perspective provides valuable insight into the show's significance and the complex issues surrounding the controversy.