AceShowbiz - Taylor Frankie Paul’s former co-star on Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Jessi Draper, recently spoke out in defense of Paul following the public emergence of a domestic violence incident from 2023. Draper addressed the controversy during her appearance on Alex Cooper’s podcast Call Her Daddy on Wednesday.

Draper explained that while the cast was aware of the 2023 incident and the existence of a related video, none of them had actually seen the footage. “It was like the police had had it and they talked about it and we all just were like, ‘OK,’” she recalled, emphasizing how the situation remained largely private among those involved.

Expressing empathy, Draper said she prefers not to judge a person by their “darkest moment” but rather by their mistakes and subsequent growth. She described Paul as a “real friend” who has made significant changes since the incident. “She does have a really good heart and I love her so much,” Draper shared emotionally.

Discussing the impact of the video that surfaced, Draper acknowledged the pain underlying Paul’s actions. “Seeing that video is like so hard because it's just, there's so much pain underneath the surface for Taylor,” she said. Draper stressed that the video does not reflect who Paul truly is, attributing the behavior to a “really bad cycle.”

She also mentioned the involvement of Paul’s ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, in the situation, noting both parties made mistakes. Draper’s focus remains on the well-being of the children involved, hoping the incident can serve as a wake-up call for everyone affected. “I just want the kids to be safe and happy and healthy. That's all I really want for them right now,” she said.

On March 19, a video showing a domestic violence incident between Paul and Mortensen was made public. The footage was originally bodycam video from Paul’s 2023 arrest, which was also featured during the premiere of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. Following the arrest, Paul pleaded guilty in abeyance to an aggravated assault charge. In response to the controversy, ABC removed Paul’s upcoming season of The Bachelorette from its schedule.

Currently, Utah police are investigating a third alleged domestic violence incident involving Paul. This investigation began after Mortensen reported a new incident to the West Jordan Police Department in February 2024. While details are limited, NBC News has reported that officers are reviewing multiple videos related to the case.

At this stage, law enforcement has primarily heard Mortensen’s version of events but has also communicated with Paul’s attorney. Authorities have requested that Paul either provide a written statement addressing the new allegations or appear in person for an interview.

Jessi Draper’s comments highlight the complexities surrounding Paul’s situation, emphasizing compassion and the hope for healing and safety, especially for the children involved. The ongoing investigations and legal proceedings will likely continue to unfold in the coming months.