Matlock Star Fired Amid Sexual Assault Allegation Ahead of Season Premiere

In a shocking turn of events, the CBS drama Matlock is facing a major cast change just days before the start of the 2025 TV season. According to reports, lead actor David Del Rio, who portrayed the role of first-year associate Billy Martinez, has been fired from the show following an internal investigation into a sexual assault allegation.

The incident in question occurred on September 26 and involved Del Rio's frequent scene partner, fellow regular Leah Lewis. Immediately after the allegation was reported, Del Rio was escorted off the Matlock set on October 2 by the show's executive producer, Eric Christian Olsen.

Production on the series has continued, with the cast led by veteran actress Kathy Bates. However, the show is now taking a planned break as it has wrapped up the first half of its second season. The future of Del Rio's character, Billy Martinez, remains uncertain as the show navigates this major upheaval.

This news comes as a significant blow to CBS, which was gearing up for the highly anticipated premiere of Matlock's new season. The network will now have to address this scandal and the resulting cast change in the days leading up to the show's return to television screens.