Taylor Frankie Paul is speaking out after ABC officially decided not to move forward with her season of The Bachelorette.
In a statement to PEOPLE, a spokesperson for Taylor said:
“Taylor is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security. After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse, as well as threats of retaliation, Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm.”
The statement continued:
“There are too many women suffering in silence as they survive aggressive, jealous ex-partners who refuse to let them move on with their lives. Taylor has remained silent out of fear of further abuse, retaliation, and public shaming. She is currently exploring all of her options, seeking support, and preparing to own and share her story.”
The statement comes just hours after Disney and ABC confirmed they would not move forward with the season.
ICYMI: On Thursday, March 19, TMZ released video from a 2023 incident showing Taylor throwing metal chairs at Dakota Mortensen while her daughter, whom she shares with ex-husband Tate Paul, was present.
A Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson said in a statement:
“In light of the newly released video that 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.”
Now more than ever, Taylor appears to be focusing on her health, her safety, and her children as she navigates the fallout.
