“Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star Dakota Mortensen is opening up about the chaos in his life since authorities announced they would not prosecute Taylor Frankie Paul after a reported domestic dispute between them. In a new statement, the Hulu reality star said he was focused on becoming a better parent to his son, Ever, before expressing deep regret for not leaving his relationship with Paul, 31, earlier.
Dakota Mortensen Breaks His Silence After Prosecutors Declined To Prosecute Taylor Frankie Paul
On Sunday, April 19, Mortensen, 33, shared a lengthy post to his Instagram, acknowledging that his absence on social media was to allow him to focus on himself as a person and a father. “That space has been a breath of fresh air and has given me clarity,” he said.
Mortensen, who shares one child with Paul, said that his “focus” moving forward would be on the most important thing in his life—his son Ever. He went on to say that fostering a “stable, healthy environment” for him was essential for his well-being.
Dakota Mortensen Expresses ‘Regret’ After Failing To Leave Relationship With Paul Sooner
As he continued, Mortensen addressed his contentious and reportedly abusive relationship with Paul, admitting that the two should’ve parted ways long before their 2026 legal woes.
“I regret not stepping away from a difficult cycle sooner. I’m not perfect, and I take accountability for my part. I’m sincerely sorry to those I’ve hurt,” he wrote. “At the same time, I don’t agree with how this situation has been portrayed publicly. It does not reflect the full context of what occurred or the impact it has had on me and my son.”
Mortensen, who has appeared in all four seasons of Hulu’s “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and recently starred in Alex Cooper’s “Unwell Games,” said that he was taking time away from the public eye to better himself.
“I’m closing an unhealthy chapter and moving forward with hope for better days ahead,” he shared, adding that he was “grateful” for the love and support he’s received over the last few weeks. “My intention, over time and when appropriate, is to use what I’ve learned in a way that supports others navigating similar situations,” he said.
Dakota Mortensen And Paul Have A History Of Alleged Domestic Abuse
Mortensen’s vulnerable statement comes weeks after a Utah police department confirmed it was investigating a potential domestic dispute between him and Paul. After that, details from the pair’s 2023 domestic dispute was shared online, including a horrifying video.
In the clip, reported by The Blast, Paul appears to strike Mortensen before pulling his hair and throwing metal chairs at him. Mortensen is heard crying out in the video, pleading with Paul to stop. “Holy sh-t,” he said.
The incident was reported to the police, resulting in Paul being charged with domestic violence and child abuse, according to CBS News.
Paul Gets Candid About Personal Issues Being On Display
The video’s release caused even more trouble for Paul, as Disney pulled her previously-filmed season of “The Bachelorette” from its schedule.
“It’s just heavy. It’s a heavy time, and it’s unfortunate,” Paul said after receiving the news. “I’m struggling for sure, but also at the same time I feel like if I don’t show up, then I’m just giving these opportunities away and not enjoying what we’ve worked on and something super exciting that’s coming. I just feel like it was the right thing to do… show up even though it’s hard.”
In addition to Disney and ABC, other brands, including Cinnabon, separated itself from Paul and the “SLOMW” cast.
“Cinnabon has made the decision to terminate its collaboration with ‘The Bachelorette’ and ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,’” a spokesperson said, per The Blast. “Recent developments and allegations surrounding the lead cast member led us to reassess this collaboration as it no longer aligns with our brand values.”
Paul’s Legal Victory Could Help Bring ‘SLOMW’ Back To Air Sooner Than Later
The allegations against Paul and Mortensen forced Hulu to pause production on season 5 of “SLOMW.” However, Paul’s latest legal victory could help move things along.
According to The Blast, a source close to the show said that prosecutors choosing not to prosecute Paul Is a “major development” and is the next step toward getting cameras up and rolling.