Taylor Frankie Paul's ex-partner Dakota Mortensen posted an emotional Father's Day tribute to their two-year-old son, Ever, amid their ongoing custody battle. Mortensen's Instagram post on Sunday featured photos and videos of him with their son and did not mention Paul.
"Thank you for making me a dad," Mortensen wrote. "Nothing in my life has ever meant more to me than being your father. From the moment you came into this world you gave my life a purpose I never knew I could even have. You've taught me more than I could ever teach you. You've shown me patience, unconditional love, and what truly matters in life."
Mortensen appeared to reference the custody dispute, stating that his son motivates him to be a "better man." He described the past few months as "the hardest moments of my life" but also "the most meaningful." He added, "Through it all one thing has never changed my love for you. Being your dad is the greatest blessing I could ever ask for, and I will never stop showing up for you, supporting you, and loving you with everything I have."
He also expressed gratitude for the "kindness, support and love" he has received during "this season of our lives."
In March, a new season of The Bachelorette was canceled after a video surfaced showing Paul fighting Mortensen while her daughter watched. This footage was used as evidence in a 2023 case where Paul pleaded guilty to aggravated assault.
On June 1, a judge modified Paul's supervised visitation with Ever. Paul was granted custody of Ever on the same midweek day each week without overnights, along with alternating weekends. Mortensen remains the "custodial parent" on holidays. Both parents are prohibited from making disparaging remarks about each other publicly or on social media. Their next custody hearing is scheduled for July 8.
In April, Paul stated that she has been battling post-traumatic stress disorder since 2024, which she believes may be changing due to recent stressors. She was diagnosed with PTSD approximately two years ago, and suspects it may now be Complex post-traumatic stress disorder. Paul shared that the diagnoses came from "more than one therapist" and acknowledged her own "parts, flaws, and faults" in her healing process.
Paul alluded to her February 2023 domestic violence arrest, for which she pleaded guilty to aggravated assault six months later. She described the incident as a "public atrocity" that cost her freedom and stated she would not wish such an experience on anyone. Paul credited her faith for helping her through difficult times, expressing gratitude for divine support and assistance. She also conveyed thanks for the support received from strangers online, stating, "Thank you to all of you that supported even without full context."