“Matlock” Actor David Del Rio Fired Following Sexual Assault Allegation
David Del Rio has been terminated from his role on the CBS series “Matlock” following an internal investigation into a sexual assault allegation, a source confirmed today.
Del Rio, who played Billy Martinez, a first-year associate at Jacobson Moore, was reportedly escorted off the set last week. The allegation involves a female actor on the show, and prompted the internal review. Approximately half of the show’s second season had been filmed at the time of the incident. This news comes as the entertainment industry continues to grapple with issues of workplace safety and accountability.
CBS Studios declined to comment on the matter. The character of Billy Martinez will be written out of future episodes of “Matlock.” The series, starring Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, earned a second season renewal after its successful premiere in October 2024 and Bates received an Emmy nomination for her performance. Additional cast members include Skye P. Marshall, Jason Ritter, and Leah Lewis.
“Matlock” is currently on a pre-planned hiatus and is slated to debut its second season on CBS on October 12. CBS Studios has not yet commented on how Del Rio’s departure will impact the production schedule or storyline moving forward.
