David Del Rio’s wife slams 'Matlock' co-star Leah Lewis, following sexual assault allegations

Actor, David Del Rio fired from Matlock after sexual assault allegation involving co-star prompts backlash from wife

Katherine Del Rio, wife of actor David Del Rio, publicly lashed out at Matlock co-star Leah Lewis following allegations that David sexually assaulted the actress. The incident reportedly occurred on September 26 on the Paramount lot, and according to Deadline, David was fired and escorted off the set on October 2 — the same day the alleged assault was reported.

Katherine posted a scathing message via Instagram Stories on Thursday, sharing a close-up of Lewis with the caption, “This is the most disturbing human being I have ever met.”

-Instagram.

She also appeared to mock Lewis' statement about moving forward "in love and strength" after the incident. Katherine reposted a similar message, writing, “Mom is here. We are moving forward in love and strength after what Leah did to our family.” Both posts were later deleted.

-Instagram.

David, 38, played first-year associate Billy Martinez on the CBS legal drama Matlock, which stars Oscar-winner Kathy Bates. Leah Lewis, 28, portrays fellow associate Sarah Franklin. Neither David nor Leah have publicly commented in depth about the allegations, beyond Lewis’ initial statement thanking supporters and emphasizing resilience.

TMZ reported that the alleged incident took place on studio property and involved Lewis. Sources told Deadline that executive producer Eric Christian Olsen was present when Del Rio was removed from set. CBS Studios and representatives for those involved have declined to comment.

Production of Matlock Season 2 has reportedly completed its first half and is on a pre-planned hiatus until after Thanksgiving. David’s character is being written out of the show entirely. The second season is scheduled to premiere on October 12.

Prior to this controversy, Lewis spoke positively about working with Del Rio, praising his comedic timing and theater background in a September 2024 Us Weekly interview. Del Rio and Katherine, married for over a decade, share two children.