When the news broke that season 22 of “The Bachelorette” was canceled by ABC on Thursday, March 19, it wasn’t just the lead, Taylor Frankie Paul, who was affected. After all, while the cancelation meant that viewers would never see “The Secret Wives of Mormon Wives” star handing out roses, it also meant that the public will never get to know the 22 men who was vied for her heart.
And, since the cancelation news, many of them have taken to social media to share their reaction, and even praise their fellow contestants.
Contestants of Season 22 of ‘The Bachelorette’ Are Speaking Out
Since the shocking video of Paul’s altercation with ex, Dakota Mortensen, was released by TMZ, and subsequently the cancelation news, contestants of Paul’s season have spoken out.
Among them was Johnnie LaRossa, described by ABC as a 30-year-old former professional baseball player. “Appreciate everyone reaching out,” LaRossa wrote on Instagram Stories. “Grateful for the experience.”
He then gave a sweet shoutout to the 21 other men who competed on the show. “I’ve gotta say the group of guys were truly unbelievable,” he wrote. “Nothing but respect for them. Love you boys, and any woman would be lucky to have each and every one of them!”
Clayton Johnson, a 36-year-old singer/songwriter, echoed those sentiments. “I can honestly say this was one of the best groups of men I’ve ever been around,” he wrote on his Instagram Stories.
“So much integrity, respect and heart across the board. Even the tough moments never took away from that,” he continued. “Any woman would be lucky to be with any of these guys. Real integrity. Real respect. Real men. Love you boys.”
Taylor Frankie Paul Has Also Spoken Out After the Cancelation
After Disney’s decision to not air her season, Paul also spoke out.
“Taylor is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security,” a spokesperson for Paul said in a statement to People. “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.”
“There are too many women who are suffering in silence as they survive aggressive, jealous ex-partners who refuse to let them move on with their lives,” the statement continued. “Taylor has remained silent out of fear of further abuse, retaliation and public shaming.”
Paul and Mortensen were together for approximately two and a half years before their split in late 2024. In 2023, Paul was arrested for misdemeanor charges after an argument with Mortensen. The video published by TMZ this week is reportedly from that incident.
Recently, the former couple have found themselves in an investigation for domestic assault after another blow between them.
