David Del Rio and Leah Lewis’ Matlock characters, Billy and Sarah, gained a loyal following on the CBS show until Del Rio’s departure following allegations of sexual assault against Lewis during the filming of season 2.
Us Weekly reported in October 2025 that Del Rio had been terminated from the cast of Matlock after claims of inappropriate conduct were made by Lewis. The incident was said to have occurred in late September and alerted CBS, resulting in an internal investigation that led to Del Rio being “fired and escorted off the lot,” according to Deadline.
Us Weekly also sought comments from CBS, Del Rio, and Lewis at the time.
Before the scandal erupted, Del Rio and Lewis frequently praised each other, reflecting the strong connection between their characters — first-year associates at Jacobson Moore law firm.
Here’s a look at their thoughts on collaborating:
Comedy Genius
Lewis remarked, “Working with David Del Rio, who portrays Billy, has taught me a great deal about comedy. His theater background brings an element of dance and sparkle to our scenes together.” In September 2024, she expressed her admiration for Del Rio, noting he has one of the most vibrant personalities she has encountered, making every moment on set feel like a playful experience.
She also highlighted her gratitude for the diverse talents of her castmates, saying, “The various ways everyone conducts themselves on set is something I keenly observe — and it’s been absolutely amazing.”
Lewis Supported His Choice
Del Rio shared how Matlock came to his attention in a December 2024 interview with Hello!, saying, “I was initially given an audition slot, and then I noticed Kathy [Bates]‘s name attached. Shortly after, I had a meeting with the team at Sutton Street Productions. During my second audition, they helped me grasp Billy’s character, profoundly shifting my interpretation of him.” (Bates plays the lead character, Madeline “Matty” Matlock, who cleverly integrates herself into the law firm.)
He mentioned a quick response from the production team led to him auditioning for different iterations of Sarah, resulting in Leah Lewis landing the role. “That was my decision; I voted for her,” he revealed.
Excited for Expanded Scenes
Del Rio conveyed to The Wrap in December 2024 that creator Jennie Snyder Urman sought a deeper connection between Billy and Sarah in the latter part of season 1. Del Rio recounted, “I hadn’t interacted with her for several weeks because she was busy writing. When she returned, she provided one crucial direction: ‘Keep in mind that their bond is becoming stronger,’ which was an epiphany for both Leah and me.”
This dynamic was highlighted when Billy sought support from Sarah after his girlfriend, Claudia (Bella Ortiz), rejected his proposal in season 1, episode 8.
Anticipating the Next Chapter
In the season 1 finale, Billy discovered that his almost-fiancée is expecting a child. Both Del Rio and Lewis expressed their enthusiasm for the storyline as they looked ahead to season 2 in June 2025.
Del Rio remarked, “This will be my first role that delves into fatherhood. Integrating that experience into the legal world promises to create an exciting dynamic ‘two storms colliding.’ As an actor, these compelling circumstances are what you crave.”
Lewis playfully added, “Viewers will love Billy as a potential dad… if he does indeed become one.”
