Quick Read
- Leah Lewis was born in Shanghai and adopted to the US as an infant.
- She starred in ‘Nancy Drew’, ‘The Half of It’, and voiced Ember in Pixar’s ‘Elemental’.
- Lewis currently plays attorney Sarah Franklin in CBS’s ‘Matlock’.
- David Del Rio was fired from ‘Matlock’ after an internal investigation into a sexual assault allegation involving Lewis.
- Production on ‘Matlock’ will rework scripts following Del Rio’s abrupt exit.
Leah Lewis: A Journey from Shanghai to Stardom
In Hollywood, stories often begin with a dream. Leah Marie Liang Lewis’s journey is proof that dreams can cross continents, languages, and even the toughest barriers of the entertainment industry. Born in Shanghai, China, Leah was adopted from an orphanage at just six months old. Her early life took a dramatic turn when she was raised in Windermere, Florida, alongside her younger sister Lydia, also adopted from the same orphanage. The story of two sisters—once separated by thousands of miles—united by fate, is not just a chapter in her biography. It’s a metaphor for resilience and finding belonging in unexpected places.
Lewis’s early passion for performance was nurtured at Crenshaw School in Orlando, later at Thornebrooke Elementary and Southwest Middle School, before graduating from Olympia High School. Her adolescence was a whirlwind of movement between Orlando and Los Angeles, each relocation sharpening her resolve to pursue acting professionally. At age 20, she made the permanent leap to Los Angeles—a city where ambitions are tested daily.
From ‘Nancy Drew’ to ‘Elemental’: A Versatile Portfolio
Leah Lewis’s career is a testament to versatility. She first captured widespread attention as Georgia “George” Fan in the CW’s ‘Nancy Drew’ (2019–2023), breathing new life into the classic mystery series. But her breakthrough came with Netflix’s ‘The Half of It’ (2020), where she played Ellie Chu—a role that resonated with audiences for its authenticity and emotional depth. Lewis’s nuanced portrayal of a shy, intelligent teen navigating identity and love drew critical acclaim and established her as a voice for underrepresented stories in film.
Her ascent didn’t stop there. In 2023, Lewis lent her voice to Ember Lumen, the fiery protagonist of Pixar’s ‘Elemental’. The animated film’s success introduced her to a global audience, with critics praising her ability to infuse animated characters with genuine emotion. Now, in 2024, she’s taken on a new challenge: portraying attorney Sarah Franklin in CBS’s legal drama ‘Matlock’, joining a cast led by Kathy Bates and Skye P. Marshall.
‘Matlock’ and a Sudden Storm: The Incident and Its Aftermath
The calm professionalism of a television set can be shattered in an instant. Just days before the highly anticipated premiere of ‘Matlock’ Season 2, the series was rocked by a serious allegation. According to Deadline and TMZ, David Del Rio—who played Billy Martinez, a first-year associate at Jacobson Moore law firm—was accused of sexual assault by co-star Leah Lewis. The alleged incident reportedly occurred on September 26, prompting swift action from CBS Studios and the show’s producers.
Following an internal investigation, Del Rio was terminated and escorted off the studio lot on October 2—the very day the report was filed. Executive producer Eric Christian Olsen was among those who personally oversaw Del Rio’s removal. The production team, faced with the sudden departure of a principal cast member, continued filming and prepared to rework scripts to address the abrupt change. The show’s scheduled hiatus and subsequent rewrite underscore the unpredictable realities of producing network television.
Notably, ‘Matlock’ had previously addressed the topic of workplace sexual assault in its first season, signaling a commitment to tackling difficult social issues on screen. The current situation, however, brought these themes uncomfortably close to the cast and crew, demanding both sensitivity and decisive action.
Leah Lewis: Advocacy, Representation, and Moving Forward
As the media spotlight intensified, Leah Lewis remained focused on her work and advocacy. Her experiences as an adoptee and Asian-American actress have informed her approach to storytelling, emphasizing the importance of representation and authenticity. In interviews, Lewis has spoken candidly about the challenges of navigating Hollywood as a woman of color, and the responsibility she feels to pave the way for others.
Lewis’s role in ‘Matlock’—as attorney Sarah Franklin—mirrors her real-life commitment to justice and equity. The character’s tenacity and intelligence reflect Lewis’s own values, making her portrayal both convincing and inspiring. Industry observers note that Lewis’s presence on the show, amid controversy, has been marked by professionalism and resilience.
Beyond acting, Lewis supports organizations focused on adoption advocacy and mental health. She frequently engages with fans on social media, sharing stories of overcoming adversity and encouraging others to pursue their passions. Her journey from Shanghai to the Hollywood spotlight is a beacon for those who believe in the transformative power of art and representation.
The Road Ahead: Adapting and Overcoming
As ‘Matlock’ prepares to resume production after a planned hiatus, the creative team faces the challenge of rewriting scripts and reshaping storylines. Lewis’s role is expected to gain prominence as the show adapts to the new circumstances. For viewers, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities behind the scenes, where real lives intersect with fictional narratives.
Leah Lewis’s career trajectory remains upward. Her ability to navigate personal and professional adversity—with empathy and determination—has earned her respect in the industry. Whether on screen or off, Lewis continues to champion diversity, advocate for survivors, and inspire audiences with her authenticity.
In the wake of controversy, Leah Lewis’s resolve and professionalism underscore her significance not just as a performer, but as an advocate for change in Hollywood. Her journey, marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to representation, offers hope for a more inclusive and accountable industry.