In a major boost for CBS’s Thursday night lineup, the network has officially renewed two of its standout procedural dramas: Matlock for a third season and Elsbeth for a fourth season. The announcement came on January 22, 2026, as part of a larger wave of 10 renewals for the 2026-2027 broadcast season. This news solidifies both shows as key players in CBS’s strategy to deliver compelling, character-driven mysteries that keep viewers coming back week after week.
Fans of smart legal procedurals and quirky crime-solving have plenty to celebrate. These renewals highlight CBS’s confidence in fresh takes on classic genres, blending veteran talent with innovative storytelling. Let’s dive into what this means for each series, their casts, why they’ve resonated with audiences, and what might lie ahead.
The Resurgence of ‘Matlock’: Kathy Bates Brings New Life to a Classic
Matlock is a bold reimagining of the beloved 1980s-1990s series starring Andy Griffith. This modern version, created by Jennie Snyder Urman (known for Jane the Virgin), premiered in the fall of 2024 and quickly became a hit thanks to its powerhouse lead: Academy Award-winner Kathy Bates.
In the rebooted Matlock, Bates plays Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a brilliant septuagenarian lawyer who faked her retirement to infiltrate a high-powered law firm. Using her age and unassuming appearance as camouflage, Matty uncovers corruption from the inside while tackling complex cases with sharp wit and unconventional tactics. The show mixes courtroom drama with personal stakes, as Matty navigates family secrets, professional rivalries, and her own past.
The cast includes standout performances from Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Lawrence, a driven senior attorney and Matty’s reluctant ally; Jason Ritter as Julian, Olympia’s ex-husband with a growing fascination for Matty’s methods; and Beau Bridges as the firm’s head, adding gravitas to the ensemble.
What sets this Matlock apart is its focus on ageism, gender dynamics in the legal world, and second chances later in life. Kathy Bates delivers a tour-de-force performance, earning critical acclaim for her blend of vulnerability and cunning. Viewers have praised the show’s balance of humor, heart, and high-stakes drama, making it a strong performer in the Thursday slot.
With the Season 3 renewal, Matlock will continue into the 2026-2027 season, likely premiering in the fall alongside its current run. While exact episode counts and premiere dates are yet to be confirmed, the renewal signals CBS’s commitment to letting Matty’s story unfold further. Expect more intricate cases, deeper character development, and perhaps new twists in Matty’s personal mission.
‘Elsbeth’: Carrie Preston’s Quirky Detective Charm Continues
Spinning off from the The Good Wife and The Good Fight universe, Elsbeth has carved its own niche as a delightful procedural dramedy. Carrie Preston reprises her Emmy-winning role as Elsbeth Tascioni, the eccentric, brilliant attorney now serving as a consent decree monitor for the NYPD.
Elsbeth’s unconventional style—rambling thoughts, keen observations, and disarming awkwardness—helps her crack cases that stump everyone else. Paired with Wendell Pierce as Captain C.W. Wagner, the show delivers weekly mysteries featuring New York’s elite culprits, often with celebrity guest stars adding flair.
Since its 2024 debut, Elsbeth has built a loyal following for its light-hearted tone, clever writing, and Preston’s magnetic performance. The series stands out in a crowded procedural landscape by emphasizing character quirks over grim realism. Season 3, currently airing, has introduced new romantic elements and crossovers, keeping the momentum strong.
The Season 4 renewal ensures Elsbeth will keep solving crimes through at least 2026-2027. This extension allows more exploration of her unique perspective, potential ongoing arcs with the NYPD team, and continued guest star surprises that have become a hallmark of the show.
Why These Renewals Matter for CBS
CBS’s batch of 10 renewals—including Tracker (Season 4), Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage (Season 3), Fire Country (Season 5), the NCIS franchise, Survivor (Season 51), and The Amazing Race (Season 39)—demonstrates a focus on stable, high-performing series. Matlock and Elsbeth fit perfectly into the network’s Thursday comedy-drama block, providing reliable viewership and strong ratings in key demographics.
Both shows appeal to broad audiences: older viewers nostalgic for classic procedurals and younger ones drawn to modern twists and strong female leads. In an era of streaming competition, CBS benefits from these broadcast staples that encourage weekly viewing habits.
The renewals also reflect positive critical and audience reception. Matlock has been lauded for revitalizing a legacy IP with fresh energy, while Elsbeth continues the success of its parent series with charm and originality.
What’s Next for Fans?
As production ramps up for the new seasons, fans can look forward to more episodes filled with clever twists, emotional depth, and the signature blend of mystery and humor that defines both series. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the creative teams have proven adept at keeping stories engaging season after season.
These renewals affirm that CBS is investing in quality storytelling and beloved characters. For viewers who enjoy intelligent procedurals with heart, Matlock and Elsbeth remain must-watch TV.
In conclusion, the January 22, 2026, announcement of new seasons for Matlock and Elsbeth is exciting news for CBS fans everywhere. With Kathy Bates and Carrie Preston leading the charge, these shows promise continued excellence in the legal and crime-solving genres. Tune in for more cases, more clever deductions, and more unforgettable moments—because justice (and great television) never rests.
