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- Podcast update: what Draper told Alex Cooper
- Allegations, leaked video and arrests: the basics
- How production and TV plans were affected
- Custody changes and new allegations
- Voices from the cast: support, criticism and behind-the-scenes claims
- Timeline and key moments to watch
- What this means for reality TV and public perception
- Resources and support for those affected by domestic violence
Jessi Draper says she recently spoke with Taylor Frankie Paul and described her co-star as alert and trying to steady herself amid a widening scandal that has paused production and drawn headlines. Draper shared the update on Call Her Daddy, offering both support for Paul and pointed comments about the role of leaks and social media in the unfolding story.
Podcast update: what Draper told Alex Cooper
On the latest episode of Call Her Daddy, Draper said she had a phone conversation with Paul shortly before the interview. She portrayed Paul as pragmatic and unexpectedly calm.
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- Draper described Paul as focused on processing the situation.
- She emphasized Paul’s reputation for honesty and suggested that trait will guide her response.
- Draper praised Paul for avoiding tabloid-run damage control.
“She seemed pretty positive,” Draper told host Alex Cooper, adding that Paul is taking time to figure out next steps.
Allegations, leaked video and arrests: the basics
Authorities say a cellphone video from 2023 showed a confrontation between Paul and her ex, Dakota Mortensen. That footage was later circulated publicly and prompted police action. Paul was arrested after the incident became widely known.
Draper suggested Mortensen was likely responsible for the leak. She said that, in her view, Mortensen has been the source of many of the public disclosures about the couple’s disputes.
How production and TV plans were affected
Filming for Season 5 of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives was paused amid the controversy. Networks and producers are reviewing the situation as legal questions and public scrutiny increase.
- Season 5 production halted while investigations continue.
- Paul’s planned appearance on The Bachelorette was canceled.
- Draper said the halted season had been “wholesome, dramatic and amazing.”
The ripple effects reached reality TV casting and schedules, as networks weigh reputational and legal risks.
Custody changes and new allegations
Recent court filings show Paul was temporarily restricted by a protective order that affects custody of her 2-year-old son, Ever. The change was tied to the protective order filed by Mortensen.
NBC and other outlets reported a potential third domestic dispute under review by investigators, dating to 2024. Authorities have said allegations have been made by both parties in the relationship.
Voices from the cast: support, criticism and behind-the-scenes claims
Draper praised Paul’s candor and said she hoped the public could see a more confident side of her co-star. She described Paul as being in a strong personal place after filming.
At the same time, Draper criticized Mortensen in blunt terms. She accused him of leaking material and suggested other troubling behavior.
- Paul publicly endorsed Draper’s comments with a supportive Instagram reply.
- Draper accused her estranged husband, Jordan Ngatikaura, of alleged misconduct in the interview.
- Both women and men connected to the show have spoken out online, creating a charged public debate.
“We love a person that speaks truth even when difficult,” Paul wrote in response to Draper’s remarks.
Timeline and key moments to watch
- 2023: Cellphone footage of a fight circulated online.
- Police responded and Paul was arrested after the video surfaced.
- Production of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives was paused.
- Paul’s season of The Bachelorette was canceled.
- A protective order temporarily limited Paul’s custody of her son.
- Investigations into additional alleged incidents continue.
What this means for reality TV and public perception
The case highlights how private disputes can become public fast when recorded evidence goes online. Reality stars face unique exposure. Producers must balance storytelling with safety and legal realities.
Public reactions have been mixed. Some fans emphasize support for Paul. Others question the ethics of sharing private footage or rushing to judgment online.
Resources and support for those affected by domestic violence
If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). You can also text START to 88788 for support.
