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David Del Rio Takes CBS to JAMS Arbitration Over 'Matlock' Firing

The case now moves to private JAMS arbitration required under his employment contract.

Overview

  • Del Rio has initiated arbitration against CBS Studios to challenge his termination, which his attorney says followed false and misleading allegations.
  • His lawyer says they will present real-time text messages and other evidence that contradict prior public descriptions of the incident and were not fully considered before he was let go.
  • CBS declined substantive comment on the filing and reiterated that Del Rio has departed the series.
  • The actor was fired and escorted off the Paramount lot in October 2025 after an allegation involving co-star Leah Lewis triggered an internal investigation.
  • Following a supplemental review that included a reinterview around Thanksgiving, CBS upheld its decision; reporting indicates the internal characterization shifted from “sexual assault” to “unwanted sexual conduct,” and his character was removed as production continued.