In a development that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, Katherine Leah Lewis has filed a lawsuit against her Matlock co-star David Del Rio, alleging sexual assault during the filming of the CBS reboot.
The Alleged Incident
According to court documents obtained by DailyMail.com, the alleged assault occurred in March 2023 while both actors were in Atlanta filming the new series. Lewis claims that Del Rio forcibly kissed and groped her without consent in a hotel room after what she believed was a professional meeting to discuss their characters' relationship.
Professional Consequences
The lawsuit details how Lewis's role in the series was significantly reduced following her reporting of the incident to producers. What began as a substantial part was allegedly diminished to mere background appearances, effectively ending her prominent involvement in the show.
Production Company Response
Court filings reveal that when Lewis reported the assault to the production company, she was reportedly told that Del Rio was "more valuable to the show" than she was. This response has raised serious questions about the handling of such complaints within television production environments.
Broader Implications
This case emerges against the backdrop of increased scrutiny around workplace safety in the entertainment industry. The allegations against Del Rio represent another high-profile instance of misconduct claims involving television personalities, following similar cases that have surfaced in recent years.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and professional harm resulting from the alleged assault and its aftermath. Both CBS and the production company have been named in the legal action alongside Del Rio.
