Actor David Del Rio challenges CBS dismissal via arbitration, presenting new evidence to dispute sexual misconduct allegations and restore his career.
- March 7, 2026
AceShowbiz - David Del Rio is challenging his unexpected dismissal from CBS' Matlock after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced last year. The actor has initiated arbitration with CBS Studios, seeking to dispute what his legal team calls false and misleading accusations that have severely damaged his career and reputation.
According to Del Rio’s attorney, Shawn Holley, the arbitration will involve presenting real-time text messages and other evidence that contradict the previously reported accounts of the incident. Holley emphasized that this key evidence was not fully evaluated prior to the adverse employment decision against Del Rio. He expressed confidence that a thorough review will reveal the truth and help restore Del Rio’s professional standing.
The arbitration process, which began recently, is being overseen by mediators from JAMS. CBS Studios declined to comment on the arbitration or the ongoing investigations but reaffirmed that Del Rio is no longer part of the series.
The dismissal occurred in October 2023, following an alleged incident on September 26 involving fellow Matlock cast member Leah Lewis. The reported event took place in Lewis’ trailer on set and triggered an internal investigation at Paramount, the studio behind CBS. On the same day the allegations were made, Del Rio was removed from the production and escorted off the Paramount lot where the series, led by Kathy Bates, is filmed.
Before initiating arbitration, Del Rio participated in multiple interviews during the investigation conducted by CBS Studios. Around Thanksgiving, he was reinterviewed in the presence of his new attorney, Shawn Holley, as part of a supplemental probe. Despite the additional review, CBS Studios upheld their original decision to remove Del Rio and write his character out of the show promptly.
Following the further investigation, the nature of the allegations against the married Del Rio was revised from sexual assault to unwanted sexual conduct. CBS Studios did not comment on this change when contacted by Deadline.
As the arbitration proceeds behind closed doors, the outcome will be critical in determining the veracity of the claims and the future of Del Rio’s career in television. Both sides await a full evidentiary review that could clarify the circumstances surrounding his departure from Matlock.
