Actor David Del Rio Demands Transparency from CBS Over Reopened Sexual Assault Investigation
David Del Rio, the 38-year-old actor dismissed from the CBS drama series Matlock last October, is now calling for the network to publicly disclose the findings from its recently reopened sexual assault investigation against him. The probe was initiated following allegations made by his 29-year-old co-star, Leah Lewis, who accused Del Rio of assaulting her at Paramount studios.
Investigation Concluded with Actor Seeking Disclosure
According to reports from TMZ, CBS has concluded its internal investigation into the matter, and Del Rio is actively pushing for the results to be made public. The actor has consistently denied Lewis's allegations and has retained high-profile attorney Shawn Holley to represent him throughout this process. The Daily Mail has contacted both Holley and CBS Entertainment for comment on the developing situation.
The case was revisited in November via an internal investigation, during which Del Rio claims he provided substantial evidence that proves his innocence. He has now formally requested that his legal team demand CBS hand over its findings, with new information expected to be revealed by the end of this week.
Background and Fallout from the Allegations
In November, Del Rio was interviewed by network investigators, with his lawyer present. Other individuals connected to the incident were also interviewed as part of the reopened probe, as sources informed TMZ last year. Following the initial allegation, Del Rio was escorted off the studio premises prior to his eventual ouster from the show, according to insiders.
CBS Studios subsequently confirmed that his character, Billy Martinez, would be written out of storylines for the second half of season two. At the time, an insider indicated that filming had resumed following a brief hiatus. Despite the ongoing drama, Matlock—which premiered in September 2024—has been renewed for a third season.
Legal Representation and Personal Responses
Attorney Shawn Holley, who has previously represented high-profile clients including Kim Kardashian, Justin Bieber, and Lindsay Lohan, is leading Del Rio's defence. In the wake of the allegations, Del Rio has apparently leaned on his wife, Katherine Del Rio, for support. The couple, who married in April 2018, share two young daughters, Lillian and Coco.
Last fall, Del Rio unexpectedly appeared on Instagram as his wife shared a family photo, captioning it with a message of gratitude for her family's support. Meanwhile, Leah Lewis took to Instagram following her allegations, posting a photo alongside her mother with a caption emphasising moving forward in love and strength, thanking supporters for their care.
This case highlights ongoing issues of transparency and accountability in the entertainment industry, with Del Rio's demand for disclosure adding a new layer to the complex narrative surrounding workplace conduct and legal proceedings in Hollywood.
