Leah Lewis Speaks Out After ‘Matlock’ Co-Star David Del Rio Fired Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Leah Lewis Responds to Sexual Assault Allegations Against David Del Rio

Leah Lewis, known for her role as Sarah Franklin on the CBS legal drama “Matlock,” has publicly spoken out following the shocking news that her co-star David Del Rio was fired due to sexual assault allegations. The incident, which reportedly took place on September 26, 2025, has sent ripples through the entertainment industry and sparked a wave of support for Leah from fans and colleagues alike.

On October 2, 2025, after the allegations surfaced, Del Rio was escorted off the set and subsequently dismissed from the series. The network conducted an internal investigation that confirmed his departure. Del Rio, who portrayed Billy Martinez on the show, has yet to issue a public statement regarding the accusations.

In the wake of these events, Leah Lewis took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message with her followers. Posting a radiant photo alongside her mother, Lorraine Lewis, Leah expressed gratitude for the support she has received and emphasized her resilience. “Mom is here,” she wrote, “I’m in good hands. Thank you to everybody for any kind of support and care.” She further stated, “Truly, we’re moving forward in strength. Key word, strength. Please, let that be the take away.”

The Impact on ‘Matlock’ and the Cast’s Response

The firing of David Del Rio has inevitably affected the production of “Matlock.” The show is currently on hiatus, with filming paused until November when the cast is scheduled to resume shooting the second half of Season 2. The season premiere is set for October 12, 2025, but the controversy has cast a shadow over the series.

Interestingly, several of the show’s prominent cast members, including Kathy Bates and Jason Ritter, have remained silent on the matter. This silence has left fans and media outlets speculating about the internal dynamics on set and the support system available to Leah and other cast members.

Meanwhile, the situation has also sparked a public reaction from David Del Rio’s wife, Katherine Del Rio. She posted and later deleted harsh messages directed at Leah Lewis, calling her “the most disturbing human being [she has] ever met.” Katherine also mocked Leah’s statement about moving forward in strength by posting a similar message about herself and her mother, insinuating that Leah’s allegations have harmed her family. The couple has been married since April 2018 and share two young daughters.

Leah Lewis’s Strength and Moving Forward

Despite the turmoil and public scrutiny, Leah Lewis’s message centers on strength, healing, and support. Her decision to share a positive image with her mother and openly thank her supporters highlights her determination to rise above the controversy.

Leah’s statement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing strong in the face of adversity. It also underscores the need for a supportive community, especially when confronting serious issues like sexual assault.

As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with accountability and justice, Leah Lewis’s courage in speaking out contributes to a broader conversation about safety and respect on set and beyond.

Conclusion

The allegations against David Del Rio and his subsequent firing from “Matlock” have brought significant attention to the challenges faced by actors in the industry. Leah Lewis’s response, marked by resilience and gratitude, offers a hopeful perspective amid difficult circumstances. As the show prepares to continue its second season, fans and colleagues alike are watching closely to see how the cast and crew move forward.

If you want to stay updated on the latest celebrity news and developments in this story, be sure to follow trusted entertainment news sources and support survivors of sexual assault by promoting awareness and respect in all communities. Your voice matters—join the conversation today.