Matlock Star David Del Rio Fired from CBS Reboot Following Sexual Assault Allegation Involving Co-Star Leah Lewis
In a dramatic and sudden development that has rocked the set of CBS’s upcoming Matlock reboot, actor David Del Rio has been fired from the series following a sexual assault allegation reportedly made by co-star Leah Lewis.
Del Rio, who was cast in a prominent role opposite Oscar-winner Kathy Bates, was slated to play the character Billy, a lead investigator and key part of the show’s legal team. Production sources have confirmed that he has been terminated from the series, and his character will be recast and re-shot in scenes already filmed for the first season.
According to reporting from Entertainment Weekly and People, the network and production studio moved swiftly after receiving the accusation. The alleged incident is said to have occurred off-set and was brought to the attention of CBS executives during production. While no criminal charges have been filed publicly as of now, the decision to terminate Del Rio appears to be part of a zero-tolerance policy regarding workplace misconduct.
Swift Action from CBS and Producers
A CBS spokesperson said in a brief statement:
“David Del Rio is no longer a part of Matlock. The role of Billy will be recast. We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment on all our productions.”
Del Rio has not commented publicly on the allegations. His representatives have also declined to issue a statement at the time of publication.
Leah Lewis, known for her breakout role in Elemental, has not made any direct public statement but is reportedly cooperating fully with internal investigations. Industry insiders say the studio is offering support to cast and crew as the situation develops.
Fallout for the Reboot
The Matlock reboot, a gender-flipped revival of the classic courtroom drama, was set to be one of CBS’s flagship legal series for the upcoming season. With Kathy Bates in the lead role of attorney Madeline Matlock, the series had generated significant buzz. However, Del Rio’s firing just weeks before the premiere has now placed a cloud over the show’s launch.
Production sources have indicated that reshoots are already underway, with a replacement actor to be announced shortly. It is unclear how much of the first season will need to be redone.
Industry Reaction
The incident has once again raised conversations in Hollywood around accountability and the ongoing effort to create safe sets. While details remain confidential, CBS’s rapid response is being viewed by some as a reflection of industry-wide changes in how allegations — particularly involving sexual misconduct — are handled.
This is a developing story. More updates are expected as further details become available.
