Utah Reality Star Taylor Frankie Paul Faces Protective Order Hearing

Paul's former partner seeks long-term order as authorities investigate domestic violence reports

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:19pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shattered glass and cracked porcelain, capturing the fragility and damage of an abusive relationship through dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting and abstract, high-fashion textures.The fallout from allegations of domestic abuse threatens to shatter the career of a rising reality TV star.Salt Lake City Today

A Utah judge will hear arguments on a protective order sought by Taylor Frankie Paul's former partner, Dakota Mortensen, who has temporary custody of their 2-year-old son. The hearing comes after Paul's recent 'Bachelorette' season was canceled over abuse allegations in their relationship, and as authorities investigate domestic violence reports from earlier this year.

Why it matters

The case has drawn national attention due to Paul's status as a reality TV star, with her show 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' and planned 'Bachelorette' season being impacted by the allegations. The outcome of the protective order hearing could have significant implications for Paul's future in the entertainment industry.

The details

Mortensen is asking the court to turn a short-term protective order against Paul into a long-term one as authorities investigate domestic violence reports from February. The hearing is expected to focus on those earlier incidents, not a 2023 fight that led to Paul's arrest. ABC and Disney canceled Paul's upcoming 'Bachelorette' season over a leaked video of that 2023 incident, in which Paul appears to physically assault Mortensen.

  • The protective order hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • The domestic violence reports under investigation date back to February 2026.

The players

Taylor Frankie Paul

A reality TV star known for the Hulu series 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' and a recently canceled season of 'The Bachelorette'.

Dakota Mortensen

Paul's former partner who has temporary custody of their 2-year-old son and is seeking a long-term protective order against Paul.

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What they’re saying

“I was used to these baseless claims about me and our relationship, which I categorically deny.”

— Dakota Mortensen

“I have been silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation and am finally gaining the strength to face my accuser.”

— Taylor Frankie Paul

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to grant Dakota Mortensen's request for a long-term protective order against Taylor Frankie Paul.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex issues of domestic abuse allegations in high-profile relationships, and the potential career and personal consequences for those involved. The outcome of the protective order hearing could significantly impact Paul's future in the entertainment industry.