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David Del Rio Fired from ‘Matlock’ After Alleged Sexual Assault on Co-Star Leah Lewis | Full Controversy Explained

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Split image featuring professional headshots of David Del Rio on the left and Leah Lewis on the right, both prominent actors from the CBS series 'Matlock.'

In a shocking twist that has set the entertainment world ablaze, David Del Rio has been fired from Matlock following serious sexual assault allegations made by co-star Leah Lewis. The news broke just days before the new season premiere, sending shockwaves through Hollywood and sparking intense online debate.

Timeline of the Scandal

According to reports, the alleged incident occurred on September 26, 2025, on the Paramount Global studio lot where Matlock is filmed. Lewis reportedly came forward on October 2, prompting the network to launch an internal investigation. Within hours, Del Rio was escorted off the set and swiftly removed from all upcoming episodes.

CBS Reacts Swiftly

The studio issued an internal memo confirming Del Rio’s firing and announcing that his character, Billy Martinez, will be written out of future episodes. Completed episodes featuring the actor will still air, but he will have no presence in upcoming storylines. The decision reflects the network’s zero-tolerance stance toward workplace misconduct.

Leah Lewis Breaks Her Silence

Lewis addressed the situation via Instagram Stories, posting a heartfelt message with her mother:

“Mom is here, we’re moving forward in love and strength. I’m in good hands… Thank you for any kind of support and care. Truly, we’re moving forward in strength.”

Her statement fueled massive support online, with hashtags like #JusticeForLeah, #DavidDelRio, and #MatlockControversy trending on X and Instagram.

The Wife’s Explosive Reaction

In a controversial move, Katherine Del Rio, David’s wife, took to social media to slam Leah Lewis, calling her “the most disturbing human being I have ever met.” The post went viral before being deleted, adding more fuel to the already explosive scandal.

The Fallout for ‘Matlock’

The Matlock reboot, one of CBS’s biggest legal drama revivals, is now at the center of a storm. With Del Rio’s exit and the network under scrutiny, fans are speculating how the series will rewrite key plotlines. Critics note that this controversy could either damage the show’s reputation or boost viewership as curious audiences tune in.

Ongoing Investigation

Close-up of actors David Del Rio and Leah Lewis looking concerned in a scene from the CBS legal drama 'Matlock,' both wearing professional business attire.
Credit: CBS / Paramount Studios

As of now, no criminal charges have been filed. The case remains an internal investigation, but sources suggest that legal proceedings could follow. Del Rio has not made a public statement, and his legal team has remained silent.

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