The CBS legal drama Matlock has captured audiences since its 2024 premiere, thanks to Kathy Bates‘ powerhouse performance as the sharp-witted, undercover septuagenarian lawyer Madeline “Matty” Matlock. The series cleverly reimagines the classic Andy Griffith show with modern twists, corporate intrigue, and high-stakes courtroom battles. As Season 2 progresses into 2026, the show faces one of its biggest shake-ups yet: the shocking exit of a key cast member and the arrival of two fresh faces to inject new energy into the Jacobson Moore law firm.
This cast change isn’t just routine—it’s tied to real-world controversy and creative decisions that promise to reshape dynamics in the hit series. In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the details of the departure, introduce the newcomers, analyze what it means for the storyline, and look ahead to what’s coming when Matlock returns.
The Shocking Exit That Rocked the Set
In October 2025, Matlock fans were stunned by news that David Del Rio, who portrayed junior associate Billy Martinez, was fired from the series. Del Rio’s character Billy had become a fan favorite as part of the “junior trifecta” alongside Leah Lewis‘ Sarah Franklin and Matty herself. Billy brought humor, heart, and relatable ambition to the firm, often serving as a bridge between the old-school Matty and the ambitious younger attorneys.
The exit stemmed from serious allegations. Co-star Leah Lewis reportedly accused Del Rio of sexual assault following an incident on set in late September 2025. CBS Studios launched an immediate internal investigation, and Del Rio was escorted off the lot the same day the allegation surfaced. He has denied the claims, but the network stood by its decision to terminate his contract after the probe.
This real-life scandal forced writers to pivot quickly. Parts of Season 2 had already been filmed with Del Rio, requiring rewrites to explain Billy’s absence without derailing ongoing arcs like paternity issues and firm mergers. Showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman handled the transition thoughtfully. In the midseason finale “Call It a Christmas Gift” (aired December 2025), Billy’s storyline wrapped via a personal crisis—his fiancée suffered a miscarriage, leading him to step away from the firm indefinitely. This organic write-out avoided sensationalism while respecting the gravity of the situation.
The departure left a void in the ensemble. Billy’s banter with Sarah and his growth under Matty’s mentorship were highlights. Fans worried the show might lose its youthful edge or junior-level perspective.
Enter the Newcomers: Sarah Wright Olsen and Henry Haber
To fill the gap and evolve the narrative, Matlock welcomed two new recurring cast members for the second half of Season 2, debuting when the series returns on February 26, 2026.
First is Sarah Wright Olsen as Gwen, an efficiency expert brought in to scrutinize the Jacobson Moore firm amid a looming merger. Gwen arrives with authority, armed with data-driven insights that could expose inefficiencies—or create tension among the high-powered attorneys. Wright Olsen, known for roles in Parks and Recreation and American Made, brings sharp comedic timing and presence. Interestingly, she’s married to Matlock executive producer Eric Christian Olsen, adding a fun behind-the-scenes connection.
Then there’s newcomer Henry Haber as Hunter, a younger associate pulled from the “floater pool” and described as a total “bro.” Hunter promises a different vibe—laid-back, perhaps overly confident, and injecting a fresh male energy into a firm dominated by strong female leads like Matty (Kathy Bates) and Olympia (Skye P. Marshall). Urman has emphasized that Hunter isn’t a direct replacement for Billy. Instead, he introduces long-desired dynamics, bringing humor through his bro-culture persona contrasting the more serious, justice-driven core cast.
These additions arrive at a pivotal time. The firm faces merger pressures, ongoing fallout from the Wellbrexa scandal, and personal dramas for characters like Olympia and Julian (Jason Ritter). Gwen’s analytical role ties directly into corporate plotlines, while Hunter’s casual style could spark comedic clashes and new alliances.
How These Changes Impact the Show’s Future
The cast shake-up arrives as Matlock thrives. Renewed for Season 3 in January 2026, the series balances procedural cases with serialized mysteries, family drama, and social commentary. Kathy Bates remains the anchor, delivering Emmy-worthy work as Matty navigates deception and justice.
Urman has teased exciting arcs ahead, including returns from recurring players like Justina Machado (Eva) and Melanie Lynskey. The newcomers enhance diversity in perspectives—Gwen’s corporate expertise challenges the firm’s status quo, while Hunter adds levity and a different masculinity.
Critics and fans appreciate how the show addresses change without losing heart. The exit was handled sensitively, prioritizing safety and storytelling integrity. New characters avoid feeling forced, instead expanding the world naturally.
What Fans Can Expect When Matlock Returns
When Matlock resumes in late February 2026, viewers will see the firm transformed. Expect Gwen to stir up merger drama, potentially clashing with Olympia or aligning with Matty’s undercover mission. Hunter’s “bro” energy could lead to hilarious missteps or unexpected insights in cases.
The series continues tackling timely issues—corporate ethics, gender dynamics, generational differences—while delivering twisty cases and emotional depth. With Bates at the helm, the show remains must-watch TV.
In a landscape of reboots, Matlock stands out for evolving boldly. These cast changes prove it’s committed to growth, even amid challenges.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new viewer, the second half of Season 2 promises fresh intrigue, strong performances, and the clever twists that made Matlock a hit.
Stay tuned to CBS for the return—justice never takes a break, and neither does Matty Matlock.
