Who is Taylor Frankie Paul? From TikTok Fame to The Bachelorette Lead

Taylor Frankie Paul, a 31-year-old influencer and reality TV star, has made headlines once again — this time as the new lead of “The Bachelorette” season 22, airing in 2026. She is the first woman in the show’s history to be cast as the Bachelorette without previously appearing on The Bachelor.

Early Life and Rise to Fame on TikTok

Taylor Frankie Paul started as part of #MomTok, a group of Mormon mothers in Utah who became popular for their lifestyle content on TikTok. Paul quickly stood out and grew a massive following, with over 5.5 million followers on TikTok and 1.6 million on Instagram.

Her online fame skyrocketed in 2022 after she revealed details about Salt Lake City’s so-called “soft-swinging scene.” Paul admitted she had broken the rules of an agreement with her then-husband, which led to a divorce.

Secret Lives of Mormon Wives

Paul’s viral popularity opened the door to television. She became one of the main stars of Hulu’s reality series “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” which explores the lives of Mormon mothers, their marriages, and their friendships.

The show also documented Paul’s turbulent relationship with Dakota Mortensen, the father of her third child.

Legal Issues and Controversy

In February 2023, Paul was arrested after a dispute with Mortensen and faced charges including domestic violence in the presence of a child. She later pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of aggravated assault in August 2023, while other charges were dismissed.

Despite the controversy, Paul remained active online and in reality TV, keeping her large fanbase engaged.

Becoming The Bachelorette

On September 2025, Paul announced on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast that she will be the new Bachelorette. She admitted she was nervous but excited to meet contestants and begin the journey.

Paul said she is looking for a hardworking man in his thirties or early forties who is willing to move to Utah, where she lives with her three children. She clarified that her ideal partner does not need to be Mormon.

She also stressed that while she is open to engagement on the show, she wants to take her time to truly get to know her future partner.

What’s Next?

Before The Bachelorette airs on ABC in 2026, Paul will appear in season 3 of Hulu’s “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” set to release in November 2025.