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HomeNews‘Matlock’ star David Del Rio fired from show over sexual assault allegation

‘Matlock’ star David Del Rio fired from show over sexual assault allegation



CBS said goodbye to one its “Matlock” stars, David Del Rio, after the actor was accused of sexually assaulting co-star Leah Lewis.

The network confirmed to Page Six Thursday that the actor “departed the series,” but declined further comment.

The actor’s firing is said to have come after the studio conducted an internal investigation, according to Deadline.

David Del Rio was fired from “Matlock,” CBS confirmed to Page Six. Getty Images
The actor’s firing is said to have come after he was accused of sexually assaulting co-star Leah Lewis, and the studio launched an internal investigation. CBS via Getty Images

Del Rio’s character, Billy Martinez, will immediately be written off, though it’s unclear how many episodes he’ll appear in for the upcoming second season. The show is currently on a filming hiatus through November after completing production on the first half of the season.

Sources previously told Deadline that the incident with Del Rio, 38, and Lewis, who plays Sarah Franklin, took place on Paramount property on Sept. 26.

Reps for series star Kathy Bates and Lewis did not immediately return Page Six’s requests for comment. Attempts to reach Del Rio on Thursday evening were unsuccessful.

Del Rio will appear in previously filmed episodes, but his character will be written out of future episodes. CBS via Getty Images
Del Rio was booted off the crime drama on Oct. 2. Variety via Getty Images

Del Rio parted ways with the crime drama on Oct. 2.

Among those that escorted the actor off the studio lot was “Matlock” executive producer Eric Christian Olsen.

Soon after reports of Del Rio’s firing surfaced, Lewis took to her Instagram Stories to assure fans that she’s “moving forward” with her life.

Lewis told fans via social media that she’s “moving forward” amid the tumultuous time. Variety via Getty Images
“Key word, strength. Please, let that be the takeaway,” Lewis wrote. WireImage
The series also stars screen legend Kathy Bates. CBS via Getty Images

“Mom is here, we’re moving forward in love and strength. I’m in good hands,” she wrote on Thursday alongside a photo of her and her mom. “Thank you to everybody for any kind of support and care.”

“Truly, we’re moving forward in strength. Key word, strength. Please, let that be the takeaway,” she closed.

In addition to Lewis, “Matlock” also stars Bates as titular character Madeline “Matty” Matlock, Skye P. Marshall and Jason Ritter.

“Matlock” Season 2 premieres on Oct. 12.

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