Back in December, it was announced that CBS was reopening a case concerning actor David Del Rio. The actor had previously been fired from the 2024 reboot of Matlock, where he played Billy Martinez. Since then, a few updates have been shared concerning the story.
David Del Rio Was Previously Walked Off The Set Of Matlock Following Sexual Assault Allegations
In 2024, Del Rio had been cast as Billy Martinez on Matlock, a gender-lipped reboot of the original Andy Griffith-led series, staring Kathy Bates. On the show, he was a first-year associate who worked with Bates’ character at her law firm.
Back in October 2025, Del Rio’s co-star, Leah Lewis, accused him of sexual assault. Following this, he was fired and escorted off the set. Del Rio’s last appearance was on the seventh episode of the show’s second season.
It was previously reported that CBS would reopen the investigation, looking into his previous interactions with Lewis. However, sources have claimed that the network has decided not to change its decision to fire the actor.
As noted by TMZ, following this investigation, CBS has decided to stand by its earlier decision despite the actor presenting new evidence in an attempt to clear his name. According to the outlet, the book has since been closed over the case.
Del Rio has denied Lewis’ claims against him, which alleged that he sexually assaulted her on Paramount property in Los Angeles. He previously hired powerhouse lawyer Shawn Holley to represent him.
Del Rio’s Attorney Later Issued A Statement Over The Decision
During the Matlock‘s second season, a character talked to Del Rio’s character, Billy, on the phone, with him revealing that his girlfriend had a miscarriage, during the midseason finale. It was implied that the character would be taking time away from the firm.
Meanwhile, Lewis has remained on the show. She recently shared a photo of her standing outside her trailer, celebrating the show being picked up for a third season. The series is scheduled to return on February 26, 2026, at 9 PM ET on CBS.
As noted by TMZ, in a later update, Holley, Del Rio’s attorney, has also shared, “The book is far from closed.” According to the outlet, the actor will be pursuing all legal options.
As noted by Entertainment Weekly, neither Del Rio nor Lewis has publicly commented on the situation directly. However, the outlet noted that Lewis posted a vague statement about “moving forward” after Del Rio’s firing was reported. At the time, the actress wrote, “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.”
Have you been following this story? What is your reaction to the update? Have you been keeping up with the Matlock reboot? Make sure you come back to TV Shows Ace for all the latest reality TV and celebrity news.
John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.
