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‘Matlock’ Writer Sues CBS and Show Creator Over Alleged Racist and Sexual Comments
The complaint alleges repeated racist and sexual remarks in the writers' room and says Lowe was fired after raising concerns.
- On Wednesday, John Lowe, a former Matlock executive story editor, filed a lawsuit against CBS Television Studios, showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman, and producers Nicki Renna and Jeffrey Lieber, alleging a hostile work environment.
- Lowe, who worked from October 2023 to July 2025, claims he was terminated in retaliation for reporting discriminatory conduct, including Urman allegedly calling Juneteenth 'Coonteenth' and pressuring him to keep her dog.
- The complaint alleges Renna made derogatory comments about Black cast member Eme Ikwuakor, stating he 'can barely read,' and graphically described her sex life to Lowe during late-night calls despite recent anti-harassment training.
- CBS issued a statement denying the allegations, asserting an internal investigation found no support for Lowe's claims and stating it looks forward to vigorously defending the lawsuit.
- The litigation follows the October firing of series regular David Del Rio for sexual assault, adding to production turmoil for the hit legal drama averaging 16 million cross-platform viewers.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources16
Leaning Left4Leaning Right1Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources lean Left
57% Left
L 57%
C 29%
14%
Factuality
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