The reboot of the classic legal drama “Matlock” is facing real-life legal drama as former cast member David Del Rio initiates arbitration against CBS Studios. The actor, who played attorney Billy Martinez, was terminated in October following allegations of sexual assault made by a co-star, Leah Lewis. Del Rio contends that CBS acted prematurely and failed to fully consider evidence that contradicts the accusations, potentially jeopardizing his career.
The dispute centers around an alleged incident that occurred on September 26, 2025, with Lewis reporting the matter to CBS a week later. Del Rio was subsequently “fired and escorted” off the set the same day Lewis filed her report, according to reports. The actor had already filmed seven episodes for the show’s second season before his abrupt departure. This legal battle raises questions about due process and the handling of sensitive allegations within the entertainment industry.
Del Rio is being represented by high-profile attorney Shawn Holley, whose previous clients include Kim Kardashian, Justin Bieber, and Lindsay Lohan. Holley stated that Del Rio will “present real-time text communications and evidence that directly contradicts prior public characterizations of the interaction at issue” during the arbitration process. The actor’s claim focuses on the “false and misleading allegations that caused substantial professional and reputational harm,” according to Holley’s statement.
CBS Investigation and Del Rio’s Dismissal
CBS Studios launched an internal investigation following Lewis’s allegations. While details of the investigation remain largely undisclosed, the network ultimately upheld its decision to terminate Del Rio’s employment. CBS reopened the investigation in December, interviewing additional parties, including Del Rio and his legal counsel. However, CBS has declined to comment further on the matter, citing its policy of not discussing ongoing legal proceedings. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed CBS’s stance on commenting.
The show addressed Del Rio’s absence in its midseason premiere in February, with a brief exchange where an HR representative inquires about his whereabouts. Lewis’s character, Sarah Franklin, responds with a vague explanation, stating he is “out sick. Very, very sick. Vomiting,” while Kathy Bates’ character, Madeline “Matty” Matlock, adds, “And we’ve got him covered.” This on-screen handling of the character’s departure underscores the sensitivity surrounding the situation.
Social Media Fallout and Family Response
Following Del Rio’s firing, Leah Lewis alluded to the incident in a now-deleted Instagram story, posting a photo with her mother and writing about moving forward “in love and strength.”
Del Rio’s wife, Katherine Del Rio, responded to Lewis’s post with a series of now-deleted Instagram stories of her own, reportedly mocking Lewis and expressing support for her husband. Screenshots shared by Page Six show Katherine Del Rio’s posts, including a close-up of Lewis’s face with the caption, “This is the most disturbing human I have ever met,” and a parody of Lewis’s original statement, claiming “what Leah did to our family.”
The Arbitration Process and Contractual Obligations
Because of a clause in Del Rio’s contract, the dispute will be resolved through private arbitration rather than a public lawsuit. This process allows for the presentation of evidence and testimony in a more confidential setting. Holley emphasized that the arbitration will provide a platform for Del Rio to “restore his professional reputation” and establish the truth of the matter. TV Insider reported on the details of the arbitration process.
The outcome of this arbitration could have significant implications for both Del Rio’s career and the broader conversation surrounding workplace conduct and allegations in the entertainment industry. As the case progresses, the focus will be on the evidence presented and how CBS handled the initial allegations and subsequent investigation. The legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming months, with a resolution potentially impacting future protocols for handling similar situations within the industry.
What comes next will depend on the evidence presented during arbitration and the arbitrator’s decision. The outcome could range from reinstatement of Del Rio’s contract to a financial settlement or further legal action. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in respectful discussion about this developing story in the comments below.
