For longtime television viewers, the name Matlock carries a special kind of weight. It’s more than just a title—it’s a symbol of classic courtroom drama, sharp moral clarity, and a lead character whose quiet intelligence often spoke louder than flashy theatrics. Now, with Matlock reintroduced to modern audiences through CBS’s reimagined series, one question keeps surfacing again and again:
When are new episodes of Matlock coming out?
It’s a simple question, but the answer comes with layers—network scheduling strategies, production realities, season structures, and the evolving way audiences consume television today. Whether you’re a loyal fan who’s followed every episode so far or a curious viewer thinking of jumping in, here’s everything you need to know about the release schedule, what’s happening behind the scenes, and what to expect next from Matlock.
Why ‘Matlock’ Still Matters in Today’s TV Landscape
Before diving into episode dates, it’s worth understanding why this reboot has sparked so much attention in the first place.
The original Matlock, which aired from 1986 to 1995, starred Andy Griffith as the folksy yet razor-sharp defense attorney Ben Matlock. The show stood out for its deliberate pacing, courtroom twists, and emphasis on logic over spectacle. In an era dominated by fast-cut crime procedurals and high-stakes action, Matlock felt grounded—almost comforting.
CBS’s modern reimagining doesn’t simply recycle nostalgia. Instead, it updates the spirit of the original for a contemporary audience, blending classic legal drama with modern themes, sharper social commentary, and character-driven storytelling. That balance is precisely why viewers are paying close attention to when new episodes arrive.
So, When Are New Episodes of ‘Matlock’ Airing?
As of now, Matlock follows a traditional network television release schedule on CBS. New episodes typically air once a week, rather than being released all at once like many streaming series.
That weekly cadence means:
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One new episode per week during the active season
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Occasional breaks due to holidays, special programming, or network scheduling adjustments
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Mid-season pauses that can last anywhere from one to several weeks
These pauses often confuse viewers, leading many to believe the show has been delayed or canceled—when in reality, it’s simply following standard broadcast TV patterns.
Understanding Mid-Season Breaks and Hiatuses
If you’ve ever wondered why Matlock seems to “disappear” for a week or two, you’re not alone. Mid-season breaks are a long-standing tradition in network television.
Common reasons include:
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Holiday programming (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s)
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Major live events (sports, awards shows, political coverage)
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Production pacing, allowing cast and crew to stay ahead of broadcast deadlines
For Matlock, these breaks are not a sign of trouble. In fact, they often allow the writers to fine-tune upcoming storylines and ensure the second half of the season lands with more emotional and narrative impact.
How Many Episodes Are in a ‘Matlock’ Season?
While streaming shows often stick to 8–10 episodes per season, Matlock leans toward the classic network format.
A full season generally includes:
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18–22 episodes, depending on production and network decisions
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A clear split between early-season cases and later, more serialized story arcs
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A stronger emphasis on character development as the season progresses
This structure is especially effective for legal dramas, where standalone cases can coexist with longer emotional and ethical journeys for the characters.
Is ‘Matlock’ Available on Streaming Platforms?
Yes—and this is where things get easier for modern viewers.
After airing on CBS, new episodes of Matlock are typically available to stream on Paramount+, CBS’s official streaming platform. This allows viewers to:
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Catch up on missed episodes
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Rewatch key courtroom moments
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Binge several episodes at once during mid-season breaks
However, availability timing can vary by region, and some episodes may require a subscription tier that includes current-season content.
Why Fans Are So Invested in the Release Schedule
The anticipation surrounding new episodes of Matlock isn’t just about plot twists—it’s about rhythm.
Legal dramas thrive on routine. Viewers like knowing that a familiar courtroom, a sharp closing argument, and a moral question await them at the same time each week. When that rhythm is interrupted, it naturally sparks curiosity and concern.
Social media has amplified this effect. Each scheduling gap leads to:
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Online speculation about renewals or delays
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Fan theories about upcoming episodes
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Increased engagement whenever CBS confirms return dates
In a crowded television landscape, that level of attention is something networks quietly appreciate.
Will There Be Schedule Changes in the Future?
Network television is always subject to change, and Matlock is no exception.
Potential factors that could affect future episode releases include:
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Ratings performance
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Competing shows in the same time slot
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Major real-world events requiring schedule reshuffles
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Production timelines for future seasons
That said, strong audience interest and steady viewership generally work in a show’s favor. As long as Matlock continues to perform well, its weekly release structure is likely to remain stable.
What to Expect From Upcoming Episodes
While CBS tends to keep plot details under wraps, upcoming episodes of Matlock are expected to:
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Dig deeper into long-running character arcs
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Present morally complex cases with no easy answers
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Balance procedural courtroom drama with emotional storytelling
If earlier episodes focused on establishing tone and characters, later installments often take bigger risks—both narratively and emotionally.
Why Waiting Might Actually Be a Good Thing
In the age of instant gratification, waiting a week for a new episode can feel frustrating. But for a show like Matlock, that wait can actually enhance the experience.
Weekly releases allow:
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Time to reflect on legal and ethical questions raised by each case
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Space for discussion and debate among fans
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Greater emotional impact when storylines finally resolve
Sometimes, anticipation is part of what makes a series memorable.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Up With ‘Matlock’
So, when are new episodes of Matlock airing?
The answer, in short, is weekly during its active season, with occasional planned breaks that are standard for network television. While the exact dates may shift, the show’s steady presence on CBS—and its availability on streaming—makes it easy for fans to stay connected.
In a television era defined by speed and spectacle, Matlock offers something different: patience, precision, and storytelling that trusts its audience. And that may be exactly why viewers are willing to wait for the next episode—week after week.
