Writer John Lowe has filed a lawsuit against CBS Television Studios, alleging he was subjected to a hostile work environment characterized by racial and sexual harassment during his tenure on the series Matlock. The legal complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, names showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman and executive producers Nicki Renna and Jeffrey Lieber as defendants, claiming they permitted discriminatory behavior and retaliated against Lowe after he reported a supervisor’s use of a racial slur.
Details of the Allegations
According to the legal filing reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Lowe alleges that the writers’ room was "permeated by sexually explicit and discriminatory conduct." The plaintiff claims that a supervisor referred to the Juneteenth holiday as "Coonteenth." Lowe further alleges that he was subjected to inappropriate comments regarding his race and physical anatomy shortly after joining the production.
The lawsuit asserts that Lowe’s employment was terminated in retaliation for his internal complaints regarding these incidents. He is seeking unspecified damages for claims including a hostile work environment and failure to prevent harassment.
CBS Response and Internal Investigation
CBS Studios has denied the allegations of systemic misconduct. In a statement provided to Variety, a spokesperson for the studio stated that a "thorough investigation" was conducted following Lowe’s complaints. The studio maintains that the investigation did not find support for the claims and expressed an intent to "vigorously defend" the litigation in court.
Context of Production Controversies
This legal action follows previous personnel issues on the Matlock set. In 2025, actor David Del Rio was removed from the series after allegations of sexual assault were raised by his co-star, Leah Lewis. Del Rio has denied the allegations. The production has since navigated these challenges while moving forward with its broadcast schedule.
Matlock, a reboot of the classic legal drama starring Kathy Bates, has been renewed for a third season, with the network scheduling its return for the 2026-2027 broadcast year.
Key Details Regarding the Litigation
- Plaintiff: John Lowe, former writer for Matlock.
- Defendants: CBS Television Studios, Jennie Snyder Urman, Nicki Renna, and Jeffrey Lieber.
- Primary Allegations: Racial and sexual harassment, hostile work environment, and retaliatory termination.
- Status: The case is currently pending in Los Angeles Superior Court; CBS has publicly denied the claims.
If you or someone you know is the victim of sexual assault, contact the RAINN National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).