AceShowbiz - David Del Rio has initiated arbitration proceedings against CBS Studios following his dismissal from the legal drama Matlock.

The actor was removed from the series in October after CBS conducted an investigation into an incident involving him. According to a statement from Del Rio’s attorney, Shawn Holley, the actor is challenging what she described as "false and misleading allegations" that have caused significant damage to his career and reputation.

Holley outlined that Del Rio intends to present “real-time text communications and evidence that directly contradicts prior public characterizations of the interaction at issue.” She emphasized that this crucial evidence was not fully examined prior to the adverse employment decision.

The legal representative further expressed confidence that a thorough review of the evidence will clarify the facts and help restore Del Rio's professional standing. This statement marks the first public response from Del Rio or his representatives since his exit from the show.

CBS has declined to comment on the ongoing arbitration or the underlying incident.

David Del Rio portrayed up-and-coming lawyer Billy Martinez during the first season of Matlock. He had already filmed multiple episodes for the second season before being dismissed just prior to its premiere last fall.

Following Del Rio's departure, the character of Billy Martinez was written out of the series. His final appearance aired on December 4 in the episode titled "Prior Bad Acts." In the subsequent midseason finale, "Call It a Christmas Gift," Billy is mentioned as taking a “personal day.” The episode reveals that his character’s girlfriend, Claudia, played by Bella Ortiz, suffered a miscarriage, which explains his absence.

The character did not return in the most recent midseason premiere, "Collateral." However, actress Kathy Bates’ character, Matty, reassured viewers that the team at the Jacobson Moore law firm had everything “covered” without Billy.

Last month, Entertainment Weekly reported that CBS had reopened its investigation into the incident involving Del Rio and subsequently upheld its decision to remove him from the show.

Deadline Hollywood previously revealed that the incident pertained to a sexual assault allegation involving Del Rio and his costar Leah Lewis. Del Rio has denied these allegations, as reported by TMZ.

Leah Lewis has not publicly addressed the situation in detail but shared a vague message on her Instagram Stories shortly after news of Del Rio’s firing became public.

In her post, Lewis wrote, “Mom is here, we’re moving forward in love and strength. I’m in good hands. Thank you to everybody for any kind of support and care. Truly, we’re moving forward in strength. Key word, strength. Please, let that be the takeaway.”

Despite the controversy, Lewis recently celebrated the renewal of Matlock for a third season. She expressed gratitude toward the show’s executive producers, guest stars, and the hardworking crew, praising their warmth, professionalism, and creativity that enrich the series each week.