Production is reportedly continuing after a planned Thanksgiving break, with the writers’ room reworking Del Rio’s exit storyline.
Why the Firing Matters
The “Assault on Matlock” controversy stands out as one of the few times a major network has taken immediate action against a series regular following an on-set sexual assault allegation.
CBS, in particular, has faced scrutiny over its handling of misconduct cases in the past. In 2018, former CEO Les Moonves resigned following multiple sexual harassment allegations.
That same year, Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Eliza Dushku received a $9.8 million settlement after alleging she was fired from Bull for confronting lead actor Michael Weatherly about inappropriate remarks.
Weatherly publicly apologized at the time, acknowledging that his jokes were “not funny and not appropriate.”
The quick termination of Del Rio could mark a shift in how CBS handles such issues—prioritizing accountability over protecting talent.
Read more on MSN about the firing and its implications for Matlock Season 2.