CBS and 'Matlock' Showrunner Sued by Ex-Writer Over Alleged Racist and Sexually Explicit Workplace

Former "Matlock" writer John Lowe has filed a lawsuit against CBS Television Studios, showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman, and executive producers Nicki Renna and Jeffrey Lieber, alleging a hostile work environment marked by racist comments, sexual harassment, and retaliatory termination. The complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims Lowe was fired two weeks after reporting an incident where Urman made offensive remarks about Juneteenth, according to Variety. "The work environment was 'permeated by sexually explicit and discriminatory conduct.'" The lawsuit details a range of alleged misconduct, including that Urman made racially stereotyped comments about Lowe's body and genitalia, and that she placed late-night calls to him while in her underwear, Deadline reported. The complaint also references a perception of "indentured servitude" among Black staff members, according to the same outlet. Lowe's termination came shortly after he raised concerns about Urman's comments regarding Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The lawsuit alleges that the showrunner's remarks were insulting and contributed to a discriminatory atmosphere, as reported by Variety. The legal action highlights ongoing issues of racial discrimination and retaliation within the entertainment industry, according to The A.V. Club. The lawsuit, which seeks unspecified damages, names CBS Television Studios, Urman, Renna, and Lieber as defendants. The "Matlock" revival starring Kathy Bates has not commented on the allegations, and representatives for CBS and the producers have not yet responded to requests for comment, according to Deadline.

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