The CBS legal drama ‘Matlock’ has been thrust into controversy following allegations of sexual assault against actor David Del Rio.
The situation has quickly escalated, involving social media drama, strong public reactions, and the actor’s wife, Katherine Del Rio, publicly responding to the allegations in an unexpected way.
The Allegations and Immediate Action
On October 2, 2025, CBS received a report concerning an incident that allegedly occurred on September 26 involving David Del Rio and his co-star Leah Lewis.
Del Rio, who plays first-year associate lawyer Billy Martinez, was fired and escorted off the set the same day the incident was reported, according to Deadline.
This swift action by CBS reflects the serious nature of the allegations, as no actor is typically removed from a television set without substantial reason.
Matlock has continued filming its second season, with plans to write Del Rio’s character out of the storyline.
David Del Rio and Leah Lewis (Credit: YouTube)
Leah Lewis Speaks Out
Leah Lewis, who portrays Sarah Franklin, another first-year associate, broke her silence through social media on the day of Del Rio’s departure.
She posted a photo hugging her mother, accompanied by a message emphasizing strength and support:
“Mom is here. We’re moving forward in love and strength. I’m in good hands… Key word, strength. Please, let that be the takeaway.”
Her post was met with public support, highlighting the importance of believing survivors and the cultural shift in handling workplace misconduct allegations.
David Del Rio’s Wife Reacts Publicly
In an unexpected turn, Del Rio’s wife, Katherine Del Rio, publicly criticized Leah Lewis. She posted and deleted Instagram Stories, including a close-up photo of Lewis with the caption:
“This is the most disturbing human being I have ever met.”
Katherine also shared another Story depicting herself with her mother, implying they were moving forward in love and strength after the alleged incident.
These posts were widely perceived as victim-blaming, sparking criticism from fans and social media users.
Many believe her reaction frames the incident as a personal attack on her family rather than addressing the alleged sexual assault itself.
Public Reaction and Forum Discussions
On online forums, discussions about the incident were heated:
- Criticism of the wife: Many commenters called Katherine Del Rio’s response delusional and petty, suggesting she was defending her husband instead of supporting the victim.
- Support for Leah Lewis: Forum users praised CBS for taking swift action and allowing the victim to be heard, contrasting it with historical instances where perpetrators were protected.
- Discussion of David Del Rio’s behavior: Many noted that Del Rio’s actions likely had strong evidence behind them, given the immediacy of his dismissal. Users speculated on the impact on his career and family.
Background on David and Katherine Del Rio
David and Katherine Del Rio have a long history together:
- They met in 2010 and reconnected later in Los Angeles.
- Married in April 2018 in Mexico.
- They have two children: Lilia, born in July 2023, and Coco, born in January 2025.
Their public family life, including posts celebrating their children, contrasts sharply with the ongoing allegations and the controversy surrounding Katherine’s social media posts.
Impact on ‘Matlock’ Production
Following Del Rio’s firing:
- His character is being written off the show.
- The show will go on hiatus for the second half of the season before resuming after Thanksgiving 2025.
- Fans anticipate adjustments in storylines and potential casting changes.
- CBS has been praised for its swift handling of the situation, highlighting progress in addressing sexual misconduct allegations in the entertainment industry.
The David Del Rio case underscores the complex dynamics of workplace sexual assault allegations, public perception, and social media responses.
While CBS acted promptly, Katherine Del Rio’s posts sparked further controversy by shifting blame onto the victim, demonstrating how family loyalty can clash with public accountability.
Leah Lewis’s calm, strength-focused response has earned widespread support, highlighting the growing expectation that victims’ voices are validated and protected.
In 2025, the landscape of Hollywood casting is rapidly evolving. Gone are the days when aspiring actors relied solely on drama school showcases, talent agents, or industry mixers to launch a career.
Today, TikTok has emerged as a powerful launching pad for performers, providing opportunities that were once exclusive to traditional gatekeepers.
With viral clips, creative sketches, and cinematic micro-films, TikTok is becoming a proving ground for actors, creators, and personalities who combine talent with charisma.
“TikTok is the new headshot—and the algorithm is the new casting director.”
TikTok Stars are Booking Real Roles
TikTok has not only created internet fame but also translated digital popularity into tangible career opportunities in film, television, and fashion. Notable examples include:
- Addison Rae , who transitioned from viral TikTok videos to starring in Netflix’s He’s All That and secured a multi-film deal with the streaming platform.
- Khaby Lame, the silent reaction sensation, landed a brand ambassadorship with Hugo Boss and is reportedly developing a feature comedy.
- Wisdom Kaye, celebrated as “the best-dressed guy on TikTok” by Vogue, signed with IMG Models and has auditioned for major studio projects across film and fashion.
These creators bring more than acting talent—they offer built-in audiences, measurable engagement, and social influence, attributes that casting directors increasingly value.
A 2024 survey by Casting Networks revealed that 61% of casting professionals consider social media presence a factor in digital-era casting decisions.
Why TikTok Works for Aspiring Actors
TikTok’s algorithm favors creativity, consistency, and relatability—qualities that align closely with what directors and casting professionals seek in emerging talent.
Actors can leverage the platform to:
- Exercise Creative Control: Post scenes, monologues, or sketches without waiting for approval.
- Receive Real-Time Feedback: Audience engagement instantly shows what resonates.
- Gain Direct Exposure: Agents, managers, and casting scouts actively browse TikTok for promising talent.
Popular formats include monologues, original characters, voice-over dubs, comedy sketches, and cinematic micro-films. Each format offers actors a chance to showcase range, versatility, and personality.
The Debate: Talent vs. Platform
Critics argue that casting TikTok influencers into film or TV roles sometimes sacrifices depth or polish.
After all, viral success does not automatically translate to traditional acting mastery. Yet, many TikTok stars are addressing this gap by pursuing formal training post-viral success.
For instance, Addison Rae enrolled in acting classes after her first feature film. Similarly, performers like Spencer X and Sissy Sheridan balance performance studies with digital content creation, blending craft with creativity.
The lesson is clear: today’s entertainment industry is not an “either/or” scenario. Actors must embrace both traditional craft and digital innovation to thrive.
Building a TikTok Presence Without Losing Authenticity
For actors exploring TikTok, it’s essential to treat the platform as both a creative lab and a professional portfolio. Key strategies include:
- Post with Purpose: Share self-tapes, POV monologues, or duets with film scenes that highlight your strengths and niche.
- Stay Consistent: Post 2–3 times per week; short-form content (15–60 seconds) works best, with a strong hook in the first three seconds.
- Engage Your Audience: Respond to comments, collaborate with other creators, and grow your network organically.
- Blend Training With Trends: Combine serious acting showcases with lighthearted trends, ensuring your content remains relatable while demonstrating range.
Consistency, creativity, and authenticity are key. Actors do not need millions of followers to attract attention; they need the right person to see the right post.
From Content to Casting
The distinction between “influencer” and “actor” is rapidly fading. TikTok is no longer just a platform for entertainment—it’s a legitimate tool for career advancement.
Aspiring actors who approach it strategically can gain visibility, practice craft, and even land real-world roles, all while building a loyal audience.
Treat TikTok like a digital stage. Each post is a performance and an opportunity to be discovered.
By embracing both traditional training and social media savvy, today’s actors can navigate a hybrid path where content creation and professional acting reinforce each other.
TikTok isn’t just a platform; it’s an evolving ecosystem where talent, creativity, and audience engagement converge.
Quick Tips for Actors Using TikTok
- Showcase your acting range in 60 seconds or less.
- Use hashtags like #ActorSoftok, #SelfTape, #POVActing.
- Combine storytelling with trending formats to stay visible.
- Engage with other actors and creators to build connections.
- Continue honing your craft offline through classes, auditions, and reps.
TikTok has become more than an app—it’s a launchpad.
For aspiring actors willing to adapt and innovate, the next big opportunity might arrive in the form of a 30-second clip rather than a traditional audition.
