Matlock Writer Claims Racist, Sexist Workplace

A former writer for the CBS drama Matlock has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court, alleging a hostile work environment. John H. Lowe III claims he was subjected to racist and sexually explicit comments and discriminatory conduct by showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman and executive producers Nicki Renna and Jeffrey Lieber.

Lowe, hired in October 2023, states that comments about his body, race, and dating life were made, including remarks that invoked racial stereotypes. The lawsuit also details allegations of inappropriate comments about a cast member and unsolicited late-night calls from an executive producer.

Further claims include being pressured to care for a showrunner's dog for nearly a year, with the animal reportedly not kept due to its "aesthetic." The situation allegedly escalated when Lowe inquired about observing Juneteenth, with the holiday reportedly being referred to as "Coonteenth."

Lowe alleges his termination in July 2025, less than two weeks after raising concerns about workplace conduct, was retaliatory. He seeks compensatory and punitive damages for emotional distress, humiliation, lost income, and medical expenses.

CBS Television Studios has denied the allegations, stating that a thorough investigation found no support for Lowe's claims. The studio plans to vigorously defend itself against the lawsuit. Matlock, starring Kathy Bates, has been a successful show for CBS and was renewed for a third season earlier this year.