A Modern Take on a Legal Classic
When CBS announced its 2024 reboot of the classic legal drama Matlock, fans of the original series were understandably skeptical. Could a show once anchored by the iconic Andy Griffith be successfully reimagined for today’s audiences?
The answer was clear — yes. After airing just two episodes, the show earned an early renewal, marking it as CBS’s most promising new legal drama of the year. Not only did it strike a nostalgic chord, but it also drew in a fresh generation of viewers with its topical storyline, compelling lead, and smart direction.
The show proved that revivals don’t have to rely solely on the past. With updated characters, modern legal themes, and a deeper narrative, Matlock (2024) serves as both a tribute to its roots and a strong standalone legal drama.
Kathy Bates Reintroduces “Matlock” with Purpose
Academy Award-winner Kathy Bates stars as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a sharp-witted attorney in her seventies who returns to the courtroom — and corporate America — with a mission far deeper than simple justice. Unlike Ben Matlock, who was more of a Southern gentleman sleuth, Matty is fierce, driven, and emotionally wounded.
She joins New York’s elite law firm Jacobson Moore, where her Southern charm and seemingly gentle presence hide a relentless intellect and undercover motive: exposing a buried pharmaceutical cover-up tied to the opioid crisis that took her daughter’s life.
Matty isn’t simply practicing law — she’s conducting a covert investigation. The new “Matlock” becomes part courtroom thriller, part emotional mystery, anchored by Bates’ multi-layered performance. She’s warm yet calculated, compassionate yet fierce.
📅 Entity Highlight: Madeline “Matty” Matlock is not just a character — she’s a modern-day legal crusader with layered motives and emotional complexity.
Supporting Cast: A Strong Ensemble
Season 1 of Matlock introduced a compelling team of recurring characters who shaped the drama both inside and outside the courtroom:
- Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) – A no-nonsense attorney with a fierce moral compass.
- Julian (Jason Ritter) – Olympia’s ex-husband and the son of the firm’s founder; conflicted but drawn to Matty’s methods.
- Billy (David Del Rio) – A smooth-talking legal mind with street smarts.
- Sarah (Leah Lewis) – Ambitious and analytical, not afraid to challenge Matty.
- Edwin (Sam Anderson) – Matty’s supportive and steady husband.
- Alfie (Aaron D. Harris) – Her tech-savvy and fiercely loyal grandson.
Together, they form an evolving legal team, each with their own subplots and personal challenges. Their interactions provide not only courtroom drama but also office politics, generational conflict, and moments of humor.
Season 1 Recap: The Wellbrexa Conspiracy
In a suspense-filled first season, Matty’s mission unfolds piece by piece. Her goal: uncover the truth behind Wellbrexa, a pharmaceutical that caused hundreds of deaths but remained on the market due to alleged legal cover-ups.
Through courtroom maneuvering, quiet interrogations, and even familial deceit, Matty identifies the lawyer responsible for the buried documents. In the explosive two-hour season finale on April 17, 2025, she brings the truth to light.
But, as in all great CBS legal thrillers, that victory is just the beginning. New questions emerge. Who else was involved? What happens to the firm? And what price will Matty pay for her mission?
What to Expect in Matlock Season 2
📻 Air Date: Fall 2025 (Exact date TBA)
📍 Time Slot: Thursdays at 9/8c on CBS
🪩 Episodes: Expected to follow an 18-episode arc, mirroring Season 1
Returning Cast Includes:
- Kathy Bates (Matty Matlock)
- Jason Ritter (Julian)
- Skye P. Marshall (Olympia)
- Leah Lewis (Sarah)
- David Del Rio (Billy)
- Sam Anderson (Edwin)
- Aaron D. Harris (Alfie)
A new face is rising in importance: Niko Nicotera, who appeared in Season 1’s finale as a man claiming to be Alfie’s father. This subplot adds personal drama, possibly threatening Matty’s trust in her grandson.
🎤 Jason Ritter joked at PaleyFest 2025:
“Mustaches can be shaved off. As soon as I’m done [with HBO’s Lanterns], I’m back to Matlock.”
Where to Watch Matlock (2024)
- 📺 Live Broadcast: CBS, Thursday nights
- 🎥 Streaming: Paramount+
As of now, the series is not on Netflix. CBS is maintaining exclusive streaming rights within the ViacomCBS ecosystem.
Behind the Scenes: Production & Locations
While the story is based in New York City, filming is primarily done at Paramount Studios on soundstages. Beach scenes and coastal settings are shot at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, reflecting a tradition set by the original Matlock, which shifted to Wilmington, NC in Season 7.
This combination of polished studio work and scenic East Coast vistas helps create the immersive tone of the show.
Easter Eggs and Legacy Tributes
Fans of the 1986–1995 Matlock will notice numerous homages:
- Ben Matlock’s love for hot dogs makes a subtle comeback through Alfred’s culinary preferences.
- The legal tone reflects the slow-burn pacing of the original.
- In a twist, “Matlock” isn’t Matty’s real surname. It’s a cover identity, a nod to espionage-style storytelling that deepens the mystery.
“Matlock” becomes more than a name — it’s a symbol of a mission for truth.
Real-World Towns: Matlock & Matlock Bath
The show’s title also connects to real-world locations in the UK:
- Matlock, Derbyshire — A spa town known for its Victorian charm.
- Matlock Bath — A neighboring riverside village, often celebrated in travel blogs and tourism lists.
Notable landmarks like Riber Castle add historic appeal. The town’s profile has risen internationally as viewers Google the name, discovering that Matlock isn’t just a fictional courtroom surname.
Critics’ Take and Audience Response
The 2024 reboot has received praise for mixing nostalgia with relevance. Reviewers highlight:
- Kathy Bates’ commanding performance
- The show’s modern social themes (e.g., the opioid crisis)
- Its balance of courtroom drama and emotional storytelling
“It doesn’t ask much of you — but delivers more than you expect.” — Entertainment Weekly
FAQs About Matlock (2024)
Is the new Matlock a remake?
Not directly. It is a reimagining inspired by the original series, with a brand-new lead character and modern themes.
Who plays Matlock in 2024?
Kathy Bates stars as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a brilliant yet undercover attorney.
Why is Matty undercover?
She’s investigating a pharma cover-up that led to her daughter’s death, using the alias “Matlock” as part of her mission.
When does Season 2 start?
Fall 2025 on CBS (Thursday nights, 9/8c).
Is Matlock on Netflix?
No. It’s exclusive to Paramount+.
Where is Matlock filmed?
Primarily at Paramount Studios, with exterior scenes at Wrightsville Beach, NC.
What is Riber Castle?
A Gothic hilltop mansion overlooking Matlock, UK — often featured in travel content due to its connection to the show’s name.
What made the original Matlock so iconic?
Andy Griffith’s portrayal of Ben Matlock combined humor, heart, and legal brilliance. His signature hot dogs and folksy Southern charm became hallmarks.
Why Matlock (2024) Works
The reboot doesn’t merely recreate Matlock. It evolves it.
- Topical storylines like the opioid crisis give it relevance.
- Diverse characters add nuance.
- Kathy Bates’ gravitas anchors every scene.
- Smart pacing and layered storytelling make it binge-worthy.
It’s a reminder that some names carry meaning across generations — and that justice, no matter how delayed, never goes out of style.
