Actor David Del Rio Fired from 'Matlock' Reboot Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Actor David Del Rio, known for his roles in Grease: Live! and The Baker and the Beauty, was abruptly fired from the pilot of CBS’s upcoming Matlock reboot due to a serious sexual assault allegation. The incident, which reportedly occurred in December during the production of the pilot episode, sent shockwaves through the cast and crew.

The allegation was brought forth by a male crew member who accused Del Rio of sexual assault.

Following the complaint, CBS and Warner Bros. Television, the studios behind the reboot, launched an immediate and thorough investigation into the matter. Both companies confirmed their commitment to a safe and respectful work environment, treating such claims with the utmost seriousness.

Sources close to the production indicated that the studios acted swiftly.

After completing their investigation, which reportedly found no wrongdoing on the part of the producers or Warner Bros. TV, David Del Rio was promptly dismissed from the series. While Del Rio has reportedly denied the allegations, the studios moved forward with his termination, underscoring their zero-tolerance policy for such conduct.

The role Del Rio was set to play, a character named Billy, has since been recast.

Actor Phillip Spaeth, known for his work in Hairspray on Broadway and Glee, stepped in to take over the part. This rapid change allowed the production to continue without significant delay, demonstrating the studios’ determination to address the issue while maintaining their production schedule.

The Matlock reboot, which stars Kathy Bates in the titular role of a sharp, septuagenarian attorney who returns to the legal world, is a highly anticipated project.

The swift and decisive action taken by CBS and Warner Bros. TV highlights the industry’s evolving standards regarding workplace conduct and accountability for alleged misconduct. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the serious implications of such allegations and the imperative for studios to ensure a secure environment for all their personnel.