Update, 10/9/25 at 10:30 p.m.: Leah Lewis has subtly addressed the day’s upheaval. According to Deadline, the Matlock actress shared an Instagram Story on Thursday evening featuring a photo of her and her mother, captioned: “Mom is here, we’re moving forward with love and strength. I’m in safe hands. Thanks to everyone for your support and concern. We are definitely moving forward with strength. Remember, strength is key. Please focus on that.”

Original story: Earlier this month, David Del Rio, a regular on the Matlock series, was terminated following sexual assault allegations, as per an internal CBS investigation. The incident, involving fellow series regular Leah Lewis, reportedly occurred on September 26. Del Rio portrayed Billy Martinez, a rookie at the fictional law firm Jacobson Moore, appearing frequently alongside Lewis, who also played a new associate. Their characters often interacted on screen.

Following the assault report, CBS swiftly conducted an investigation and dismissed Del Rio on October 2, as reported by Deadline. The production of the show proceeded after his exit. With the series nearing a scheduled break, the show’s writers and producers now face the challenge of removing Billy from upcoming episodes. Despite the disruption, the second season of Matlock is set to debut on October 12.