‘Matlock’ Actor David Del Rio Reportedly Dismissed from CBS Series Following Alleged Sexual Assault Involving Co-Star Leah Lewis
David Del Rio, one of the ensemble cast members of CBS’s new legal-drama reboot Matlock, has been removed from the production after allegations of sexual assault surfaced involving fellow actor Leah Lewis. The series, which also stars Academy Award winner Kathy Bates and Skye P. Marshall, was preparing for its first full-season rollout when reports of Del Rio’s alleged misconduct came to light.
According to multiple industry outlets, the complaint was raised internally during filming, prompting CBS Studios and producers to launch an immediate investigation. While details remain limited due to ongoing legal processes, insiders confirmed that Del Rio was officially released from his contract earlier this week. Production sources emphasized that the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for all cast and crew.
Representatives for Del Rio have not publicly commented on the matter, while CBS Studios issued a brief statement reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct of any kind. “We take all claims seriously and are committed to providing a secure and professional environment,” a network spokesperson said. The studio also confirmed that scenes featuring Del Rio in upcoming episodes are being re-evaluated, with potential recasting under consideration before the series’ official premiere.
Leah Lewis, best known for her breakout performance in Netflix’s The Half of It and The CW’s Nancy Drew, has not made a public statement but is reportedly cooperating with investigators. Sources close to the production described the cast as “stunned and saddened” by the developments, noting that filming had been progressing smoothly under the direction of veteran showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman.
Del Rio, 37, built a diverse acting résumé over the past decade, appearing in shows such as The Troop, Grease Live!, and the Netflix comedy The Moody’s. His role in Matlock marked a significant career step, positioning him alongside Kathy Bates in a modern reinterpretation of the beloved courtroom classic. Industry observers had expected the reboot to be one of CBS’s marquee dramas for the 2025 season — making his dismissal especially notable within Hollywood circles.
The allegations arrive during a period of heightened accountability across the entertainment industry, where studios have become increasingly proactive in addressing workplace misconduct and implementing stronger reporting systems. CBS, in particular, has maintained strict protocols since previous controversies several years ago, emphasizing transparency and internal oversight.
Production insiders have indicated that the show’s schedule may face minor adjustments but remains largely on track. Kathy Bates and the rest of the main cast are reportedly continuing with table reads and scene revisions while the creative team finalizes how to move forward without Del Rio’s character.
While fans of the upcoming Matlock reboot await further clarification, CBS has reiterated that the safety and well-being of its staff remain its highest priority. For now, both the network and those close to the investigation are urging patience and privacy for all parties involved as the situation continues to unfold.
