Fired Amidst Scandal: David Del Rio's Departure from 'Matlock' Following Assault Allegations
SHOCKING CASTING CREDIBLE: Beloved Matlock Actor Fired Amidst Sexual Assault Allegations
In a stunning turn of events, David Del Rio, the charming lead actor on the hit CBS series Matlock, has been unceremoniously booted from the show amidst allegations of a heinous crime. According to sources close to the production, an investigation was launched after a female cast member came forward with a disturbing accusation against Del Rio.
TheScholarlyNote.com can exclusively confirm that Del Rio was written out of the series for future episodes, effectively ending his tenure on Matlock. Variety reports that the actor was fired from the show after being accused of sexual assault, and that he was escorted off the set last week following an immediate investigation.
But here's where it gets juicy: sources claim that the alleged incident occurred on September 26, and Del Rio was axed from the show just six days later, on October 2. According to Deadline, Matlock executive producer Eric Christian Olsen led Del Rio away from the set, accompanied by others.
TMZ corroborates the allegations, stating that Del Rio is accused of sexually assaulting a female cast member on Paramount property. The news outlet reports that production resumed after Del Rio's departure, and will continue after Thanksgiving, following a pre-planned hiatus this month and November.
The show, which stars Kathy Bates as lawyer Madeline Matlock, was renewed for a second season just two episodes into its first season. Season two is set to debut on October 12, but with Del Rio's abrupt departure, fans are left wondering what the future holds for the series.
Del Rio played Billy Martinez, a young associate at the fictional Jacobson Moore law firm, in the show. The actor's departure marks a major blow to the cast and crew of Matlock, which has already shot about half of its second season.
In a statement to TheScholarlyNote.com, CBS Studios declined to comment on the allegations, citing an ongoing investigation. However, sources close to the production confirm that the network is taking the allegations very seriously and is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all cast and crew members.
Meanwhile, Del Rio's wife and actress Katherine Del Rio took to Instagram in July to celebrate their 12-year anniversary with a sweet post. "From when you said 'yes' to be my girlfriend 12 years ago... the ride continues," she wrote. "I love you, Flower Child."
But behind closed doors, sources claim that Del Rio's personal life was beginning to unravel amidst the allegations. The actor's acting credits include roles in Pitch Perfect, The Good Doctor, Grease Live, A California Christmas, The Baker and the Beauty, NCIS: Los Angeles, and more.
As for Kathy Bates, she has received critical acclaim for her role as Madeline Matlock and has earned numerous awards and nominations. With Del Rio's departure from the show, it remains to be seen how the series will move forward without him.
TheScholarlyNote.com has reached out to a representative for the alleged victim but has not yet heard back. We will continue to provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
What do you think about David Del Rio's departure from Matlock? Share your thoughts in the comments below!