Doug Mason from The Bachelorette Stands Up for Taylor Frankie Paul
Doug Mason, a participant from Taylor Frankie Paul‘s recently canceled season of The Bachelorette, is finally speaking out.
“Given everything that has transpired, my thoughts and prayers are with Taylor because that was her moment, and it was overshadowed,” Doug, 28, shared in an Instagram video on Friday, March 20. “All we can do now is remain hopeful, and I’m off to catch the sunrise.”
He wrapped up with, “Wishing you all a wonderful day. Let’s keep a positive outlook and offer our support to those who are in need.”
Doug was among more than 20 contestants competing for Taylor’s affection in season 22 of The Bachelorette and was quickly favored by fans. Prior to the premiere on Sunday, March 22, it was reported that Taylor, 31, and her on-and-off boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, were involved in an alleged domestic violence incident back in February. The reported altercation led to the suspension of season 5 of Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
“There’s more context to this situation, and it’s unfortunate,” Taylor exclusively told Us Weekly on Tuesday, March 17. “It’s been difficult. Being in this position really sucks.”
The mother of three — who has son Ever, 2, with Dakota, 33, and daughter Indy, 8, and son Ocean, 5, with ex-husband Tate Paul — stated that the incident did not reflect her capabilities as a parent.
“As a mother, I stand firm in my beliefs. I know I am a good mother and I treat my children with utmost care,” Taylor expressed. “It’s tough to see the current headlines because they do not portray the truth. I have always treated my kids respectfully and would never harm them, making this very hard to process.”
Dakota later addressed the alleged incident.
“His top priority is ensuring Ever’s safety,” a representative for Dakota told Entertainment Weekly. “He was aware that there was a chance this information could emerge, but he did not intend to disclose it first as he wants to maintain a decent relationship with Taylor. It has been challenging, but he aims to coparent effectively.”
The statement continued: “He was hoping that remaining silent would help the situation fade away. He has never participated in a sit-down interview to share his perspective, preferring to let events unfold naturally. However, with the severity of the situation now clear, he understands that he cannot continue this way.”
Season 22 of The Bachelorette was ultimately canceled after footage from a 2023 incident between Taylor and Dakota surfaced. In the video, Taylor is seen throwing furniture at Dakota as her daughter cries nearby. (This incident was also featured in season 1 of Mormon Wives.)
A spokesperson from Disney Entertainment Television informed Us on Thursday, March 19, “Given the recent video that came to light today, we have decided not to move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on providing support to the family.”
