Not every reality TV twist plays out on screen. Sometimes, it happens in real time.
Former “Bachelorette” Rachel Lindsay had a completely unfiltered reaction after learning that the upcoming season of the show starring Taylor Frankie Paul had been canceled … while she was in the middle of recording a podcast.
Lindsay appeared on the “Bachelor Party” podcast alongside hosts Juliet Litman and Callie Curry, where the trio had originally planned to break down the highly anticipated season. In fact, they revealed they had already seen the first episode of season 22 and were preparing to cover the season together on a weekly basis.
Instead, everything changed in an instant.
Rachel Lindsay Finds Out ‘Bachelorette’ Cancellation News Mid-Recording
ABCAs the hosts discussed recent headlines surrounding Paul and her ex, Dakota Mortensen, Lindsay suddenly interrupted the conversation after receiving a message on her phone.
“They canceled it,” she said after letting out a loud gasp.
Clearly stunned, she added, “Why do I have chills?!”
The room immediately shifted as the group processed the breaking news together in real time.
“This is a huge deal,” Litman said. “This is a huge, huge, huge, huge deal.”
Moments later, Lindsay made it clear just how raw the update was.
“OK, this is fresh. I literally just got the text message,” she said. “It’s happening.”
What Happens Next?
GettyJust minutes earlier, the hosts had been debating whether the season would move forward amid mounting controversy, including a video that had leaked earlier that day of a previous altercation between Paul and Mortensen.
“Before we hopped on this podcast, we were talking about will they, won’t they,” Lindsay explained.
Litman noted “The Bachelorette” hasn’t been on air since 2024; Jenn Tran was the lead for the 21st season. Lindsay, Litman, and Curry discussed what could be next for the franchise amid the significant move—not just for the show, but for everyone involved behind the scenes, too.
“I don’t know how the franchise moves forward,” Litman added.
Why Taylor Frankie Paul’s ‘Bachelorette’ Season Was Canceled
GettyThe cancellation came amid a wave of controversy surrounding Paul in the days leading up to the premiere, which was scheduled for March 22, including resurfaced details about a past domestic violence case and newly released footage that quickly spread online.
Following those developments, ABC’s parent company, Disney, moved swiftly to pull the plug on the season entirely.
“In light of the newly released video just 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,” a Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson said in a statement, as reported by People.
Paul also addressed the situation through a statement, emphasizing her focus on her family.
“Taylor is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security,” the statement read, adding that she is “seeking support” and preparing to share her story.
ABC should have known better for choosing such an unstable and non appealing candidate.
Well, that’s not nice!