The latest episode of Matlock saw tensions flare between Jason Ritter‘s Julian and David Del Rio’s Billy, creating a dramatic moment on screen. This was evident in the October 16 episode of the CBS hit series.
During this episode, Billy attempted to connect with Julian over their experiences as fathers, but it backfired spectacularly. Julian, grappling with the implications of his demotion, found it hard to handle the idea of searching for apartments alongside Billy, a second-year associate.
The situation escalated, culminating in Julian raising his voice at Billy during office hours.
“I don’t want you as my neighbor! Step back!” Julian shouted as colleagues looked on. “I’ve been in this game longer than you have been in line for school lunches. That’s why I have a car service, an assistant, and my own office!”
After a heated exchange, Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) intervened, pulling Julian away before he could reveal that he “got triggered” and reacted to Billy inappropriately. Later on, Billy recounted Julian’s “apology” to Matty (Kathy Bates).
“I might have been a bit too eager,” Billy shared. “I was just trying to navigate the dad role since I didn’t have one growing up.”
Julian’s character arc has taken a complicated turn as he grapples with the fallout of having concealed documents related to opioid distribution.
“In season one, Julian was amid a divorce, but he managed to keep his secrets hidden. With the affair and other truths surfacing, he can no longer keep up the facade with [his ex-wife] Olympia,” Ritter, 45, revealed in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly in August. “He’s out of options for burying these issues.”
Ritter expressed that Julian will have to confront his past mistakes in the second season of Matlock. “He cannot continue to avoid this; it’s a heavy burden he’s carried while pretending to just be a good father and focusing on family,” Ritter shared. “The consequences of his actions are catching up with him, and he’s frightened.”
At the time, Ritter shared how delighted he was with the direction of the season 2 narrative, stating it has challenged him creatively.
“The show has shifted the narrative in intriguing ways,” he explained. “I’ve been able to explore new facets of Julian, which has been an exciting experience. We’re still in the early stages, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead for my character later on.”
This season isn’t just stirring things up creatively; there have been significant changes behind the scenes as well. Recently, it was announced that Del Rio, 38, was terminated from the show following an inquiry into allegations against him. It was reported that his co-star Leah Lewis accused him of assault in late September. Following her report to CBS days later, Del Rio was dismissed from the set.
Us has confirmed that Del Rio, who features in the first half of Matlock season 2, is being written out for the remaining episodes. In light of the allegations, fellow cast members have shown their solidarity with Lewis by unfollowing Del Rio on social media.
Lewis released a support statement, emphasizing, “Mom is here, we’re moving forward with love and strength. I’m well supported. Thank you for the kindness and care everyone has shown me. We’re embracing strength moving forward, that’s the key takeaway.”
Matlock broadcasts on CBS every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.
