The legal drama world just got another exciting verdict: CBS has officially renewed Matlock for Season 3! Starring the legendary Kathy Bates as the sharp-witted Madeline “Matty” Matlock, this modern reimagining of the classic series continues to captivate audiences with its clever twists, powerful performances, and timely storytelling. Announced on January 22, 2026, the renewal confirms that Matlock will return as part of the 2026-27 broadcast season, likely premiering in the fall alongside other CBS favorites.
This news comes as no surprise to fans who have watched the show dominate ratings and critical acclaim since its debut. With strong viewership numbers, glowing reviews, and Bates delivering one of her most compelling performances in years, Matlock has solidified its place as a must-watch procedural on network television. In this in-depth article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Season 3 renewal, the show’s journey so far, what made it a hit, potential plot directions, and why Kathy Bates’ return is such a big win for viewers.
The Road to Renewal: How Matlock Earned Its Third Season
When Matlock premiered in September 2024, it arrived as a bold update to the beloved 1980s-1990s series starring Andy Griffith. Created by Jennie Snyder Urman (known for Jane the Virgin and Riverdale), the new version flips the script by centering on an older woman who goes undercover at a high-powered law firm to expose corruption from within. Kathy Bates plays Matty Matlock, a brilliant but underestimated attorney in her 70s who uses her age, experience, and unassuming demeanor as weapons in the courtroom and boardroom.
The series quickly became a breakout hit. Its premiere delivered CBS’ most-watched series launch in over five years, drawing massive multi-platform audiences. Season 1 averaged around 6.16 million viewers per episode with a solid 0.37 rating in the key 18-49 demographic—a strong performance for a network drama in today’s fragmented viewing landscape.
By Season 2, which premiered on October 12, 2025, the show maintained momentum. Early episodes pulled in approximately 4-6 million viewers weekly, bolstered by strong streaming performance on Paramount+. The combination of binge-watching on streaming and traditional linear viewership helped Matlock stand out among procedurals. Critics praised the writing for balancing case-of-the-week stories with serialized character arcs, while audiences loved the show’s humor, heart, and social commentary on ageism, gender bias, and corporate greed.
The renewal for Season 3 in January 2026—while Season 2 was still unfolding—speaks volumes about CBS’s confidence. Alongside other pickups like Tracker and Elsbeth, Matlock is now a cornerstone of the network’s schedule. The decision to greenlight a third season ahead of the full Season 2 run underscores the show’s consistent delivery and loyal fanbase.
Kathy Bates Shines as Matty Matlock
At the heart of Matlock‘s success is Kathy Bates, whose performance has been widely hailed as career-defining. The Oscar-winning actress (Misery, Fried Green Tomatoes) brings gravitas, vulnerability, and razor-sharp wit to Matty. Viewers immediately connected with her portrayal of a woman who refuses to be sidelined by age or societal expectations.
Bates’ Matty is complex: she’s grieving personal losses, navigating family dynamics, mentoring younger colleagues, and relentlessly pursuing justice. Her ability to shift from folksy charm to fierce courtroom intensity keeps audiences hooked. Many critics and fans have speculated that her work could earn Emmy consideration, especially given the show’s critical praise (often boasting high Rotten Tomatoes scores in the 90%+ range).
The renewal ensures Bates will continue to lead the series into its third year. For an actress of her caliber to commit to a multi-season network show is a testament to the quality of the material and the collaborative environment on set. Fans can look forward to seeing more layers of Matty’s character unfold, including deeper explorations of her past, relationships, and moral compass.
What to Expect in Matlock Season 3
While specific plot details for Season 3 remain under wraps, several elements are likely to carry over and evolve:
- Ongoing Cases and Twists — The show excels at standalone legal mysteries with larger conspiracies bubbling beneath the surface. Season 3 will probably introduce new high-stakes cases while advancing threads from previous seasons, such as corporate cover-ups or personal vendettas.
- Character Development — Matty’s relationships with her daughter, her law firm colleagues (including Skyler Gisondo, Jason Ritter, and others), and potential new allies will deepen. Expect more emotional stakes as Matty confronts aging, legacy, and the cost of her undercover mission.
- Social Relevance — Urman’s writing often weaves contemporary issues into the narrative. Season 3 could tackle topics like elder rights, workplace discrimination, AI in law, or environmental justice—always through the lens of clever legal battles.
- Episode Count and Format — Following the pattern of 16-18 episodes per season, Season 3 should maintain the balance of procedural and serialized storytelling that has worked so well.
The 2026-27 season premiere will likely land in September or October 2026, giving fans plenty to anticipate as production ramps up.
Why Matlock Stands Out in Today’s TV Landscape
In an era dominated by streaming giants and prestige limited series, Matlock proves that smart, character-driven network procedurals still have a place. It appeals to multiple generations: older viewers nostalgic for the original series, and younger audiences drawn to its fresh take on empowerment and justice.
The show’s success also highlights the enduring appeal of strong female leads over 60. Kathy Bates joins the ranks of actresses like Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep, and Viola Davis who continue to headline major projects. Matlock demonstrates that stories about older women can be thrilling, funny, and commercially viable.
Additionally, the series benefits from CBS’s reliable broadcast platform combined with Paramount+ streaming, allowing it to reach both traditional and digital audiences. Multi-platform metrics have played a key role in its renewal, as delayed viewing and binge-watching boost overall numbers.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
Since the renewal announcement, social media has lit up with excitement. Fans on platforms like Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook have celebrated the news, praising Bates’ performance and the show’s clever writing. Many expressed relief that the series will continue beyond its initial seasons, especially given how serialized elements have built anticipation.
Critics have echoed this enthusiasm. Outlets like Deadline, TV Insider, and Collider have highlighted Matlock‘s strong ratings, streaming surge, and cultural relevance. The combination of critical praise and audience loyalty made the Season 3 renewal feel inevitable.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Be Excited for Matlock Season 3
The renewal of Matlock for Season 3 is more than just another pickup—it’s a validation of smart storytelling, powerhouse acting, and the power of a great character. Kathy Bates’ Madeline Matlock has become an icon for resilience, intelligence, and refusing to fade into the background. As the series heads into the 2026-27 season, viewers can expect more gripping cases, emotional depth, and the kind of satisfying resolutions that keep fans coming back week after week.
Whether you’re a longtime procedural fan or new to the Matlock universe, this show delivers entertainment with substance. Mark your calendars for the 2026-27 season premiere—Matty Matlock isn’t done fighting for justice just yet. Stay tuned to CBS and Paramount+ for updates on production, guest stars, and more.
