Actor David Del Rio Files Arbitration Claim Over 'Matlock' Firing

Del Rio seeks to clear his name after alleged incident with co-star Leah Lewis

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Actor David Del Rio has filed an arbitration claim following his firing from the 'Matlock' TV series after an alleged incident of "unwelcomed sexual contact" with his co-star Leah Lewis. Del Rio was escorted off the Paramount studio lot and terminated from the show, but he is now pursuing private arbitration to contest the decision and restore his professional reputation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities around allegations of misconduct in the entertainment industry, where private arbitration is often used to resolve disputes rather than public lawsuits. The outcome could impact Del Rio's future career prospects and set precedents around how such incidents are investigated and adjudicated.

The details

According to reports, Del Rio is contractually obligated to go through a private arbitration process rather than filing a public lawsuit. CBS, the network that airs 'Matlock,' conducted an initial investigation that led to Del Rio's termination. After hiring high-profile attorney Shawn Holley, a second investigation was opened, but CBS did not reverse its decision to remove Del Rio from the show. Holley claims Del Rio has evidence, including real-time text communications, that contradicts the initial characterization of the incident as 'sexual assault' and will present this at the arbitration.

  • Del Rio was escorted off the Paramount studio lot and fired from 'Matlock' last fall following the alleged incident.
  • Del Rio has now filed an arbitration claim to contest his termination.

The players

David Del Rio

An actor who was fired from his role on the 'Matlock' TV series after an alleged incident with co-star Leah Lewis.

Leah Lewis

Del Rio's co-star on 'Matlock' who reported the alleged incident that led to Del Rio's firing.

Shawn Holley

A top Hollywood attorney hired by Del Rio to represent him in the arbitration process.

CBS

The network that airs 'Matlock' and conducted investigations into the alleged incident that resulted in Del Rio's termination.

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What they’re saying

“At the arbitration, Mr. Del Rio will present real-time text communications and evidence that directly contradicts prior public characterizations of the interaction at issue. This evidence was not fully considered before adverse employment action was taken.”

— Shawn Holley, Attorney for David Del Rio (Variety)

What’s next

The judge in the arbitration case will decide whether to reinstate Del Rio to his role on 'Matlock' or uphold the network's decision to terminate him.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges of resolving allegations of misconduct in the entertainment industry, where private arbitration is often used instead of public lawsuits. The outcome could set important precedents around how such incidents are investigated and adjudicated, with implications for the careers of actors and the policies of major TV networks.