The name “Matlock” immediately evokes memories of a classic legal drama from the 1980s and 1990s, but the modern version has taken the television world by storm. Premiering in 2024 on CBS, this reimagined Matlock stars Academy Award winner Kathy Bates in the lead role, offering a fresh, gender-swapped take on the iconic character. With clever twists, strong performances, and timely themes, the series has quickly become a hit procedural drama. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or new to the franchise, here’s a comprehensive look at everything we know about Matlock—from its origins and cast to plot details, reception, and future prospects.
The Original Matlock: A Foundation for the Reboot
To understand the 2024 series, it’s essential to revisit the original. Matlock (1986–1995) was a beloved mystery legal drama created by Dean Hargrove and starring Andy Griffith as Ben Matlock, a brilliant but cantankerous criminal defense attorney based in Atlanta (later moving to Los Angeles). Known for his folksy Southern charm, gray suits, and knack for dramatic courtroom revelations, Ben Matlock often defended seemingly guilty clients only to uncover the true culprit in the final act.
The show ran for nine seasons across NBC and ABC, delivering 194 episodes of comfort viewing with guest stars, moral lessons, and Griffith’s signature warmth. It spawned spin-offs like Jake and the Fatman and Diagnosis: Murder. Decades later, the name “Matlock” still represents clever, old-school legal procedurals.
The 2024 reboot honors this legacy while subverting expectations. Developed by Jennie Snyder Urman (known for Jane the Virgin), it flips the gender of the lead and introduces a vastly different premise, making it more of an inspired reimagining than a direct remake.
Development and Premiere of the 2024 Matlock
CBS announced the Matlock revival in January 2023, with Urman writing the pilot. Kathy Bates signed on early, drawn to the role’s depth and its commentary on ageism. The series premiered with a sneak-peek episode on September 22, 2024, followed by its regular timeslot debut on October 17, 2024, Thursdays at 9/8c.
It streams the next day on Paramount+. The show earned quick success—renewed for Season 2 in October 2024 after just two episodes aired—and later for a third season in early 2026. As of January 2026, Matlock remains a strong performer in CBS’s lineup, blending procedural cases with serialized drama.
Plot and Premise: More Than Meets the Eye
The core hook of the new Matlock is its massive premiere twist. Kathy Bates plays Madeline “Matty” Matlock (née Kingston), a brilliant septuagenarian attorney who appears to be a down-on-her-luck widow re-entering the workforce at prestigious firm Jacobson Moore after decades away. She presents herself as financially desperate, raising her grandson after personal tragedies.
But this is a ruse. In reality, Matty is wealthy, sharp, and undercover. Her true mission? Infiltrate the firm to expose corruption—specifically, its ties to a pharmaceutical giant covering up opioid addiction risks. This hidden agenda drives the series, combining weekly cases with overarching mystery.
Matty uses her unassuming demeanor, folksy charm, and wily tactics (echoing the original Ben Matlock) to win cases and uncover wrongdoing. Themes include ageism, corporate greed, generational clashes, and redemption. The show cleverly meta-comments on reboots by acknowledging the “elephant in the room” while updating the formula for modern audiences.
Cast and Characters
Kathy Bates delivers a powerhouse performance as Matty Matlock/Madeline Kingston, blending vulnerability with cunning. Critics praise her for elevating the material, with many calling it one of her best TV roles.
Key supporting cast includes:
- Skye P. Marshall as Olympia, a driven partner and Matty’s boss (with complex family ties).
- Jason Ritter as Julian, Olympia’s ex-husband and son of the firm’s head.
- Leah Lewis as Sarah, a young associate.
- David Del Rio as Billy (note: the actor exited amid allegations, with his character written out mid-Season 2).
- Sam Anderson as Edwin Kingston, Matty’s husband (alive and supportive).
- Others like Aaron Harris as grandson Alfie.
The ensemble dynamic—mixing veteran wisdom with youthful energy—adds humor and tension.
Reception and Critical Response
Matlock (2024) holds strong ratings, with a 7.5/10 on IMDb and positive audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes (around 91% for Season 1). Reviewers highlight Bates’ charisma and the clever premise, though some note uneven writing in procedural episodes.
Variety called it a “clever, meta spin on the reboot,” praising its distance from the original while retaining charm. It’s lauded for tackling ageism and giving Bates (in her 70s) a leading role that feels empowering. Viewers appreciate the mix of standalone cases and serialized intrigue, making it accessible yet addictive.
Seasons, Episodes, and Future Outlook
Season 1 (18-19 episodes) wrapped with cliffhangers setting up deeper firm conspiracies. Season 2 premiered October 12, 2025 (two-night event), returning to Thursdays at 9/8c, with midseason return February 26, 2026. It includes topical storylines like ICE-related cases.
Season 3 renewal in January 2026 confirms longevity. Kathy Bates has called this her “last dance,” hinting at retirement post-series, adding poignancy.
Trailers showcase courtroom drama, twists, and Bates’ commanding presence.
Why Matlock Matters in 2025-2026
In an era of reboots, Matlock stands out by evolving the formula—gender flip, undercover plot, social commentary—while honoring Andy Griffith’s legacy. It appeals to older viewers nostalgic for procedurals and younger ones seeking smart, character-driven stories.
With strong ratings, critical acclaim for Bates, and ongoing seasons, Matlock proves timeless legal dramas still captivate.
Whether discovering the original or diving into the reboot, Matlock offers smart entertainment with heart and surprises. Stay tuned—Matty’s next revelation could be game-changing.
