Matlock Season 1 ended with a bang, delivering jaw-dropping plot twists in both the premiere and the finale. At the heart of the drama was Madeline “Matty” Matlock (Kathy Bates), who began the story in total control—but by the season’s end, that control had slipped through her fingers. In an exclusive interview with showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman, she broke down how the two-part finale sets the stage for Matlock Season 2 and teased what burning questions will be answered when the series returns this fall on CBS.
Here’s everything you need to know about Matlock Season 2.
Olympia’s Life-Changing Decision Launches the Season’s Central Mystery
In the penultimate episode of Matlock Season 1, viewers saw Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) finally confront the truth. Her friendship with Matty reached a raw, honest turning point—with no more fake accents, no more lies. Matty revealed her secret identity and the results of her Wellbrexa investigation, implicating Olympia’s ex-husband, Julian Jr. (Jason Ritter), in stealing a critical opioid study that could’ve pulled the drug off the market years ago. And yes—he was guilty.
The missing Wellbrexa study was hidden in Julian’s safety deposit box, uncovered with the help of Matty and Edwin (Sam Anderson). Julian had buried the report under orders from his father, Julian Sr. (Beau Bridges), who orchestrated the cover-up to protect a major client and their profits. Now, as a newly named partner at Jacobson Moore, Olympia is left to wrestle with the fallout—not just morally and legally, but as a mother. What happens if her ex is exposed? What will that mean for her kids and her career?
According to Urman, the Season 2 premiere will focus on Olympia’s gut-wrenching decision about whether to reveal the truth about Julian. And that choice will ignite Matlock Season 2’s central mystery.
Julian Jr. Returns to Jacobson Moore — With Strings Attached
Despite quitting after failing to make partner, Julian Jr. will be back in Matlock Season 2. But it won’t be on his terms. According to Urman, circumstances will force Julian to “grovel” his way back to the firm—for a limited time. The emotional weight of his strained relationship with his father and their shared secret about the Wellbrexa case will continue to haunt him and drag him into deeper conflict.
Alfie’s Father Enters the Picture — And Raises Big Questions
Matty’s world takes another sharp turn with the unexpected arrival of a man claiming to be Alfie’s (Aaron D. Harris) biological father, played by Niko Nicotera. What makes it worse? Alfie found him himself. The boy’s independence and curiosity, while celebrated, now create a rift between him and Matty, who never planned for this reunion.
The truth about Alfie’s parentage will be revealed in the Matlock Season 2 premiere. But regardless of whether Nicotera’s character is the real father, Urman confirmed that Alfie’s father—whoever he is—will play a major role in the new season. This twist, along with Olympia hiding the truth about Julian, will push Matty to the edge.
Matty Loses Control — And That’s Where the Drama Begins
Olympia hasn’t followed through on updating Matty and Edwin about her bank investigation. Matty trusts her, but Edwin’s not so sure. With secrets stacking up and new figures like Alfie’s father entering the scene, Matty begins to lose her grip—both emotionally and professionally.
Urman says Season 2 will dive into how Matty handles life when everything she’s built starts to unravel. “Matty’s life becomes more chaotic than ever before,” Urman explained. “That’s where new drama and even comedy come in.”
Matty and Edwin’s Marriage Faces Tough Conversations
Matty and Edwin’s 50-year marriage won’t be ending anytime soon—Urman joked that she’s as committed to their marriage as her own. But that doesn’t mean smooth sailing. Matty’s desire to return to her legal career clashes with Edwin’s dreams of retirement. Their challenge? Learning how to evolve together.
“It’s not about who’s leaving,” Urman said. “It’s about how we work through the hard stuff and what comes from the compromises we make.”
Matty and Olympia’s “Epic Love Story” Will Be Tested
The heart of Matlock remains the friendship between Matty and Olympia. Urman calls it “an epic love story.” But now that Matty’s truth is out and Olympia is hiding one of her own, the question becomes: Can they rebuild what they had in Season 1?
Expect Season 2 to explore whether their magical chemistry can survive betrayal, silence, and competing truths.
Matty’s Comeback: A Fight for Her Third Act
Beyond the personal chaos, Matty is more motivated than ever to reclaim her career. Working with Billy (David Del Rio) and Sarah (Leah Lewis) at Jacobson Moore has reignited her passion. She’s not ready to let her past—including workplace harassment and motherhood—define her future.
Matty’s “third act” is just getting started. But as always in Matlock, nothing comes easy—and the unexpected is always around the corner.
Final Thoughts: Matlock Season 2 Will Be the Most Explosive Yet
With secrets, scandals, and surprise returns, Matlock Season 2 is shaping up to be an emotional rollercoaster. This fall, CBS brings back one of the most gripping legal dramas on TV—with bigger stakes, deeper relationships, and twists you won’t see coming.
