'Matlock' Actor David Del Rio Files Arbitration Claim Over Firing
Variety • • general
Key Points:
- David Del Rio, who was removed from the cast of "Matlock" last fall following a sexual assault allegation, has filed an arbitration claim against CBS Studios challenging his termination.
- Del Rio’s attorney stated that new evidence, including real-time text communications, contradicts the public narrative and was not considered before his dismissal.
- Under his employment contract, Del Rio must resolve the dispute through private arbitration rather than a public lawsuit.
- The show acknowledged Del Rio’s character’s sudden departure in a recent episode, with characters referencing his absence due to illness.
- Social media posts from cast member Leah Lewis and Del Rio’s wife hinted at personal tensions related to the situation, with Lewis expressing strength and support, and Del Rio’s wife
