Matlock Shake-Up: David Del Rio Fired After Sexual Assault Allegation Involving Co-Star Leah Lewis

Hollywood just got hit with another storm, and this time it’s brewing on the set of Matlock. Actor David Del Rio has been fired from the CBS legal drama following serious allegations of sexual assault made by co-star Leah Lewis. The accusation and immediate fallout have not only shocked fans but have also thrown the future of the rebooted series into question.

According to early reports surfacing online and updates to the Matlock cast pages, the incident allegedly took place on September 26, 2025, during production. Lewis, who plays a key role opposite Kathy Bates in the reimagined courtroom procedural, reportedly came forward with claims of inappropriate and non-consensual behavior involving Del Rio. Following the internal investigation, CBS wasted no time in severing ties with the actor. As of October 9, Del Rio is no longer affiliated with the show after being escorted off the set last week.

Del Rio was cast as junior associate Billy, a slick up-and-comer in the legal firm where Bates’ title character works. With filming already underway for upcoming episodes, sources suggest producers are scrambling to rewrite scenes and potentially recast the role entirely.

As of now, neither CBS nor Del Rio has released an official statement. Lewis has also not made a public comment beyond the initial report. While the investigation is ongoing and the full details have yet to be publicly confirmed, the swift action taken by the network signals a no-tolerance stance that’s becoming more common in Hollywood. Still, the incident raises tough questions about on-set safety, power dynamics, and how networks handle allegations when they arise mid-production.

For now, Matlock continues production. Season 2 of Matlock debuts this October 12 at 8:30/7:30c on CBS before airing during its regular time slot which is October 16 at 9pm.