The Secret Life of Mormon Wives star Taylor Frankie Paul’s drinking issues were put on full display earlier this week when TMZ released footage of her 2023 attack against her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen. The fallout since the video’s release has been nothing short of swift and shocking. Paul was slated to be the star of ABC’s newest season of The Bachelorette, but the show has since been cancelled due to fans’ reaction to the brutal assault caught on video by Mortensen.
Taylor Frankie Paul’s Drinking – What a Counselor Said
Taylor Frankie Paul’s drinking, which included shots of Vodka consumed during a “girl’s night,” led to a chaotic fight that included chair throwing, punching, screaming, and a felony conviction of aggravated assault. For most people, a girl’s night of drinking might seem harmless, and for many, it can be. However, a counselor who interviewed Paul following the incident classified Taylor Frankie Paul’s drinking as her being an “intermediate problem drinker.”
Problem Drinking Vs. Alcoholism
So what exactly is the difference between problem drinking and alcoholism? An estimated 30% of people are excessive drinkers, meaning that, while they might not have withdrawal symptoms or be physically dependent on alcohol, they do consume drinks more so than the average person in a week, day, or engage in binge drinking. For Taylor Frankie Paul, her use of alcohol led to a blackout night of emotional turmoil, 3 years of probation, loss of income, and of course, a damaged reputation.
What’s in Store for The Once Bachelorette?
Whether Taylor Frankie Paul’s drinking will continue to impact her life and TV career like other stars remains to be seen. While not all problem drinkers will go on to develop alcoholism, many, like Paul, will need to take a step back and examine how drinking has impacted their life negatively.
Paul’s probation is set to end in August of 2026. In the meantime, her team has released a statement saying in part, “Taylor has remained silent out of fear of further abuse, retaliation and public shaming. She is currently exploring all of her options, seeking support, and preparing to own and share her story.”
