However, in October 2025, Del Rio was fired after being accused of sexual assault. Since Matlock season 2 was halfway through filming, the actor's final appearance occurred in season 2, episode 7. In the latest episode the following week, the series explained that Billy was absent because his girlfriend had suffered a miscarriage. This is established without Del Rio's character appearing.
Speaking with Variety, Snyder Urman explained that the next two episodes of Matlock season 2 would explain Del Rio's absence while writing Billy out of the show in a fitting way for the character. When asked about the actor's firing, she stated that she was "not able to discuss the events," explaining the cast and crew's ongoing diligence:
His exit will be explained in the course of the next two episodes, and it is really in line with the character and in line with what’s happening with the firm at large. We want to remain true to the character.
We just sort of plugged in and kept moving forward. We’re just all happy to be back, and focused on the work. I think that’s the thing — we want the show to be great. We want it to be joyful for the audience to watch.
Del Rio was escorted off the set of Matlock season 2 in October following the allegations. While there hasn't been any confirmation as to who was involved, Leah Lewis, who plays Sarah Franklin, was allegedly his victim. After the news was out, she made an Instagram post about "moving forward in love and strength." A now-deleted post from Del Rio's wife seemed to mock Lewis'.
Although Del Rio won't be returning to the series, the show is still planning on following through with ending Billy's storyline. The aftermath of his girlfriend's miscarriage will likely be what allows the series to write him out while finishing up his story. Although it's not ideal, there's no other way for the show to realistically conclude his plot with the actor absent.
As of writing, CBS has reopened their investigation into the allegations of assault against Del Rio, meaning there could be more information to come. However, given the severity of the accusation coupled with his firing, it seems like he will never be involved in the series again, even pending an outcome to his investigation.
For now, the biggest focus for those currently working on Matlock appears to be continuing the series' ongoing storylines without Del Rio. As other characters take front-and-center, the show's continuation will likely prove that it can move on without Billy. However, it remains to be seen what will happen to the actor in the months to come.
Matlock returns to CBS in 2026.
