Who is Taylor Frankie Paul? The viral star joining The Bachelorette
Taylor Frankie Paul. Image Credit: Disney/Michael Kirchoff
Taylor Frankie Paul is no stranger to headlines. Best known as the face of the so-called “Mormon mom” influencer scandal on TikTok, Paul has now taken another leap into the spotlight as a contestant on The Bachelorette Season 22. Her casting has sparked conversation across social media, not just because of her reality TV debut but also due to her complicated past that has been publicly documented online.
Her story intertwines viral fame, controversy, and now, a chance to find love on national television. But who exactly is Taylor Frankie Paul, and why is her casting such a big deal?
From TikTok Fame to Viral Infamy
Taylor Frankie Paul first rose to prominence as part of the Mormon influencer community on TikTok. She regularly posted lifestyle content, lighthearted videos, and family-centered clips that resonated with a wide audience. Over time, her relatability and comedic takes on motherhood helped her amass millions of followers.
But in 2022, Paul’s image took a dramatic turn. She became the center of a highly publicized scandal involving alleged “soft swinging” within her Utah friend group. The revelations made her one of the most searched names in influencer culture, shifting her from a wholesome mom persona to a lightning rod for internet drama.
READ ALSO
How to get the Weeknd tickets for his 2026 world tour – presale and UK dates revealed
Who is Heston James? TikTok prankster arrested for disrupting Tempe businesses
The Mormon Mom Scandal and Its Fallout
The so-called Mormon mom scandal dominated social media for months. Paul admitted that she and members of her friend circle engaged in non-traditional relationships, sparking debates about faith, family, and modern influencer culture.
The scandal also brought intense media attention, with Paul’s personal life dissected on TikTok, podcasts, and entertainment outlets. Her openness, combined with the controversy, made her both polarizing and impossible to ignore. Even after the initial buzz cooled, her name remained tied to discussions of influencer scandals and Mormon culture.
Taylor Frankie Paul’s Transition to Reality TV
Fast forward to 2025, Taylor Frankie Paul is taking her fame in a new direction. ABC confirmed she will appear in Season 22 of The Bachelorette, marking her debut on mainstream reality television. The announcement shocked fans of both the franchise and her online community, many of whom didn’t expect Paul to make the jump from TikTok drama to televised romance.
Producers reportedly leaned into her notoriety, hoping her controversial past would add intrigue and emotional complexity to the upcoming season. Early reactions from viewers suggest that her presence is already one of the most talked-about aspects of the new season.
What Her Casting Means for The Bachelorette
By casting Taylor Frankie Paul, The Bachelorette is signaling a shift toward integrating viral internet figures into its roster of contestants. Paul’s social media fame guarantees attention, but it also brings controversy that could shake up the traditional narrative of the show.
For Paul, the opportunity represents a chance to reshape her image. While her reputation has long been tied to the scandal, joining The Bachelorette could allow her to be seen in a new light, whether as a serious contender for love or simply as reality TV’s latest breakout character. Either way, her presence is likely to boost ratings and keep fans talking.
What’s Next for Taylor Frankie Paul?
As Season 22 unfolds, Taylor Frankie Paul’s journey on The Bachelorette will be closely watched. Whether she finds lasting romance or simply cements her place as one of the show’s most memorable contestants, her casting proves that viral fame can open unexpected doors.
For audiences, she represents a blend of influencer culture and traditional reality TV drama, a mix that is sure to fuel conversations both on screen and across social media.