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CBS Studios has moved to dismiss a lawsuit filed by John Lowe, a former writer on the network’s “Matlock” series, using an anti-SLAPP motion in Los Angeles Superior Court. The studio’s legal filing directly contests allegations that three executive producers—including showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman, along with Nicki Renna and Jeffrey Lieber—created a hostile workplace through discriminatory conduct targeting Lowe and other Black staff members.
Lowe’s complaint alleged he experienced racially stereotyped remarks and was terminated in retaliation after reporting offensive language. Specific claims included an alleged incident involving a racial slur reference to Juneteenth and allegations of humiliating treatment. CBS Studios denies these assertions entirely, providing declarations from the accused producers and witnesses that refute the specific incidents Lowe described.
The studio issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to addressing discrimination claims while characterizing Lowe’s allegations as “demonstrably inaccurate and maliciously fabricated.” CBS expressed support for the three producers and stated it conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. Lowe’s attorney indicated confidence in opposing the dismissal motion, noting the complaint was drafted with such challenges in mind.
According to the studio’s filing, Lowe worked on “Matlock” between October 2023 and July 2024. Additional details in the court documents reveal that Lowe allegedly contacted Urman demanding $10,000 approximately 18 months after leaving the production, prior to filing his formal HR complaint.
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Originally reported by Variety →
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