In the ever-evolving world of television, few genres offer the perfect blend of suspense, clever twists, and character-driven storytelling quite like legal procedurals. As we step into 2026, CBS viewers have double the reason to celebrate with the highly anticipated returns of two standout series: Matlock and Elsbeth. Both shows bring fresh energy to classic crime-solving formulas while delivering powerhouse performances, sharp writing, and intriguing mysteries that keep audiences hooked week after week.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of courtroom dramas or new to these reboots and spin-offs, 2026 marks an exciting chapter for both series. From Kathy Bates‘ commanding presence in the reimagined Matlock to Carrie Preston‘s quirky brilliance in Elsbeth, these programs continue to dominate Thursday nights (and beyond) on CBS and Paramount+. Let’s dive into why these shows are returning stronger than ever, what you can expect from their latest seasons, and why they’re essential viewing this year.
The Rebirth of a Classic: Matlock Season 2 Returns with Kathy Bates
When CBS announced the reboot of Matlock in 2024, starring Academy Award-winner Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, it was a bold move. The original 1986–1995 series, led by the iconic Andy Griffith as folksy defense attorney Ben Matlock, was a staple of 80s and 90s television. The new version flips the script—literally—with a gender-swapped lead and a completely reimagined premise that feels modern yet respectful to its roots.
Matlock premiered with a sneak peek on September 22, 2024, before settling into its regular Thursday 9/8c slot on October 17. The show quickly became a breakout hit, earning strong ratings and critical praise for Bates’ tour-de-force performance. By October 2024, CBS had already renewed it for a second season—an impressive feat that speaks to its immediate popularity.
In Season 1, we met Madeline “Matty” Matlock (Bates), who presents herself as a widowed, retired lawyer returning to the workforce at the prestigious New York firm Jacobson Moore. Underneath this unassuming exterior lies a deeper mission: Matty (whose real name is Madeline Kingston) is secretly infiltrating the firm to uncover a pharmaceutical conspiracy linked to her daughter’s tragic death. The series masterfully balances high-stakes legal cases with personal drama, family secrets, and Matty’s clever, Columbo-like tactics of outsmarting opponents who underestimate her.
Season 2, which began airing in October 2025 and continues into early 2026 (with new episodes returning February 26, 2026, at 9/8c), builds on this foundation. The core cast returns, including:
- Skye P. Marshall as Olympia, Matty’s sharp colleague and ally
- Jason Ritter as Julian, bringing emotional depth
- Beau Bridges, Leah Lewis, and others rounding out the ensemble
New recurring faces, such as Justina Machado (reuniting with the Jane the Virgin creative team), add fresh dynamics. Season 2 explores deeper layers of Matty’s revenge quest, more complex courtroom battles, and the consequences of her hidden identity.
What makes Matlock so compelling in 2026? It’s the perfect mix of comfort viewing and edge-of-your-seat intrigue. Bates, at her absolute best, delivers a character that’s wise, witty, vulnerable, and formidable. The writing keeps cases unpredictable, while the emotional core—grief, family, justice—gives the show heart.
If you’re searching for “Matlock Season 2 release schedule” or “Kathy Bates new show 2026,” this is the series delivering satisfying legal victories with a modern twist.
Elsbeth Season 3: Quirky Genius Meets High-Stakes Crime
While Matlock revives a classic, Elsbeth spins off from the beloved The Good Wife/The Good Fight universe with its own unique flavor. Carrie Preston stars as Elsbeth Tascioni, the eccentric, brilliant attorney who sees the world differently—and uses that perspective to catch New York’s elite criminals.
Originally introduced as a quirky consultant in Chicago, Elsbeth relocated to New York to work with the NYPD under Captain C.W. Wagner (Wendell Pierce). The show blends police procedural with comedy-drama, drawing clear inspiration from Columbo—we know whodunit early, but the joy lies in watching Elsbeth unravel the case with her unorthodox methods.
After a strong debut in February 2024, Elsbeth earned an early Season 2 renewal in April 2024, followed by a Season 3 pickup in February 2025. Season 3 premiered on October 12, 2025 (with a special Sunday kickoff), and after a midseason break, new episodes return Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 10/9c.
Season 3 has already delivered standout cases—from deadly ballet rehearsals to ’90s supermodel revenge plots—while deepening Elsbeth’s personal life. Romantic tension simmers with mayoral candidate Alec Bloom, and Elsbeth faces questions about her own blind spots in relationships. Guest stars like Hamish Linklater and familiar faces from previous seasons keep the episodes fresh and unpredictable.
Elsbeth succeeds because it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Preston’s Emmy-worthy performance makes Elsbeth endlessly endearing—her rambling, colorful outfits, and razor-sharp observations make every case a delight. The show tackles serious crimes while injecting humor and warmth, making it one of the most bingeable procedurals on TV.
For fans googling “Elsbeth Season 3 return date” or “Carrie Preston new episodes 2026,” the midseason premiere is your cue to tune back in.
Why These Two Shows Are Perfect Companions on CBS in 2026
Both Matlock and Elsbeth occupy Thursday nights on CBS, creating a powerhouse lineup of intelligent, character-focused crime dramas. They share DNA—brilliant protagonists who use unconventional approaches to win—but offer distinct tones: Matlock leans into emotional depth and revenge thriller elements, while Elsbeth embraces quirky comedy and lighthearted mystery.
Together, they represent CBS’s commitment to smart, adult-oriented programming that appeals to broad audiences. Both earned early renewals thanks to solid ratings, streaming success on Paramount+, and glowing reviews.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Return of These Fan Favorites
As 2026 unfolds, Matlock and Elsbeth remind us why legal procedurals remain timeless. With stellar leads, gripping cases, and emotional stakes, these series deliver the perfect blend of escapism and satisfaction.
Whether you’re catching up on past seasons via Paramount+ or marking your calendar for the February 26 returns, now is the ideal time to join (or rejoin) the excitement. These shows aren’t just returning—they’re thriving, proving that great storytelling never goes out of style.
Tune in, get comfortable, and let Matty and Elsbeth solve the cases. Thursday nights just got a whole lot more intriguing.
