Editor’s Note: This story contains discussions of rape or sexual assault that may be disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can find help and discreet resources on the National Sexual Assault Hotline website or by calling 1-800-656-4673.
(NewsNation) — “Matlock” actor David Del Rio was fired from the show following an investigation into a sexual assault allegation, according to Deadline.
Sources told Deadline that the alleged incident occurred on Sept. 26 and involved series regular Leah Lewis.
An internal investigation was completed on Oct 2. Del Rio was fired and escorted off the Paramount lot.
On the show, Del Rio played first-year associate Billy Martinez and was often paired up with Lewis’ character, Sarah Franklin, who was his colleague and friend.
While it’s unclear how many episodes he will appear in the show’s second season, his character will be immediately written off, TVLine reported.
The show completed filming the first half of its season this week and will resume filming after Thanksgiving.
Del Rio’s character was in every episode of the show’s first season.
“Matlock” stars Kathy Bates, who plays an ageing attorney who infiltrates a high-end law firm that she believes is responsible for her daughter’s death.
The show’s second season premieres on Sunday, Oct. 12.


