Dakota Mortensen Opens Up About the Dispute with Taylor Frankie Paul in Mormon Wives’ Lives
Dakota Mortensen has spoken out following a recent altercation involving Taylor Frankie Paul that resulted in a production shutdown for the reality series Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
A representative for Mortensen, 33, emphasized that his primary concern is their son, Ever. In a statement to Entertainment Weekly on March 18, the rep said, “His number one priority here is protecting [Ever]. He knew there was a possibility it could come out, but he was not going to be the one to proactively do that because he has always wanted a decent relationship with Taylor. It’s been really hard to achieve that, but he wants to coparent well.”
The statement also refuted allegations that Mortensen was responsible for the dispute, which has drawn attention from both media and authorities. According to a spokesperson for the Draper City Police Department in Utah, an open “domestic assault investigation” is currently underway. The police noted that “allegations have been made in both directions” and that they contacted both parties involved on February 24 and 25.
Mortensen’s relationship with Paul, 31, has been tumultuous, frequently highlighted on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives since the show’s debut in September 2024. This follows a prior incident in February 2023, when Paul was arrested after an altercation with Mortensen. She faced multiple charges, including aggravated assault, but ultimately pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, with other charges dismissed.
In a previous interview with Daily Mail, Mortensen defended Paul, stating, "She’s a good mom, she’s going through a lot in her life right now.” He referenced the guilt she faces over her past actions, hinting at the emotional strain resulting from a cheating scandal that led to her divorce from Tate Paul.
Despite ongoing challenges, the couple welcomed their son, Ever, in March 2024, though they have experienced subsequent breakups. As they navigate these personal difficulties, Paul has made efforts to focus on her career, including taking on a leading role in The Bachelorette, which is set to premiere on March 22.
Reflecting on her relationship with Mortensen, Paul has acknowledged the complexities, saying, “It takes two to tango. We were just not progressing.” She expressed frustration over the dynamics, noting the emotional toll of their relationship.
Paul spoke briefly about the recent incident at an event on March 17, adding, “There’s more to the context to everything and it’s unfortunate. It’s another premiere that’s been taken away from me. I’ve never enjoyed a premiere for any one of my shows. So it’s just been very sad.”
The developments in Mortensen and Paul’s relationship continue to unfold as they both seek stability for their family amidst public scrutiny.
