Matlock Actor David Del Rio Fired After Leah Lewis Assault Allegation

Actor David Del Rio has been Fired from CBS’s hit series Matlock following an alleged accusation of sexual assault from co-star Leah Lewis. CBS launched a formal investigation and pulled Del Rio from set immediately. According to sources, the alleged event took place during late September of filming Matlock, and Lewis reported her accusations not long afterward. CBS took action quickly, suspending Del Rio and later terminating his contract.

CBS Responds to David Del Rio Allegation

A CBS spokesperson confirmed Del Rio's departure, though no public statement is forthcoming as to details. Production sources say that the studio acted quickly to secure everyone's safety, comfort and to keep the production moving forward. Del Rio was officially let go from the Paramount lot on October 2, just days after the report. The internal review continues, but no criminal charges have publicly surfaced.

“Matlock” actor David Del Rio has been fired from the CBS series following a sexual assault allegation involving a female co-star.

About half of Season 2 has been filmed so far, and Del Rio’s character will be written out of upcoming episodes.https://t.co/hDzTeDlDvc pic.twitter.com/t00aIip44h

— Variety (@Variety) October 9, 2025

Leah Lewis Responds Publicly About Assault Allegation

Leah Lewis, who portrays Sarah Franklin, spoke out via Instagram. She thanked fans and supporters for their beautiful messages and conveyed that she is “moving forward with strength and love".Lewis also posted an image of herself with her mother, who has provided support and encouragement during this difficult time. Since she is known for her roles in Nancy Drew and Pixar’s Elemental, news of her firing quickly went viral.

David Del Rio’s Role in Matlock and Season 2 Plans

David Del Rio played the role of young attorney Billy Martinez, who worked alongside Matty Matlock (Kathy Bates) on the show. The character had a more extensive story arc planned for Season 2, which was supposed to include more interactions with Leah Lewis' character.While David Del Rio is now fired, his character will be written out of future episodes, but his character will remain on the show for episodes that have already been filmed. The writers and producers are having to adjust the arcs to end the season smoothly.

Impact of David Del Rio Firing on Matlock Season 2 Production

Though Del Rio's exit prompted changes, Matlock production is continuing without a hitch. The production will take a brief hiatus (Thanksgiving), allowing writers to refine episodes impacted by his departure. And overall, viewers will receive a complete legal drama season with little interruption or discontinuity.

Industry Reaction and Workplace Safety

The Entertainment Industry has shown substantial support for Leah Lewis, underscoring a commitment to a safe work environment. CBS's rapid response has been praised as network accountability in regard to allegations of misconduct.No criminal charges have been reported yet, and David Del Rio's representatives and team have not issued a public statement. The matter is reflective of a mounting awareness, and concern regarding workplace safety—in a more profound way—within Hollywood. 

Fans Reactions

Fans reacted quickly after David Del Rio was let go due to Leah Lewis' assault allegations. Some were stunned by the information while many articulated praise for Leah Lewis for addressing her trauma out loud. The comments section of social media was filled with some people sharing their thoughts on the show, and for some, what happens next. Many fans questioned how the show will go on without Del Rio during season 2 but many texted their attention to the significance of safety of actors on set . Many expressed their hope that Matlock would not suffer from the loss of Del Rio for season 2, but expressed support for the ensemble cast during difficult time that might ensue while working without Del Rio.