The Courtroom Drama Continues
After wrapping its first season in April 2025, CBS’s Matlock is officially set to return this fall, reclaiming its primetime Thursday night slot. Fans of the reimagined legal drama — starring Emmy winner Kathy Bates as the sharp and unconventional defense attorney Madeline “Matty” Matlock — can expect more high-stakes courtroom battles, clever twists, and ethically complex cases in Season 2.
CBS’s announcement comes as part of the network’s broader rollout for the 2025–2026 season, which includes a healthy mix of returning hits and new series. Among the 16 shows making a comeback, Matlock stands out as one of the freshman success stories that quickly built a devoted viewership.
A Strong First Season
The first season, which concluded on April 17, 2025, consisted of 18 episodes. It followed Matty Matlock as she joined a prestigious Atlanta law firm and quietly began shaking up the old-school establishment with her unorthodox style. While paying tribute to the original 1980s Matlock series starring Andy Griffith, the reboot carved its own lane with modern sensibilities, tighter narratives, and socially relevant legal themes.
Kathy Bates, known for her commanding performances and wry humor, was widely praised for bringing Matty to life. Her chemistry with the ensemble cast — including Skye P. Marshall, Jason Ritter, and David Del Rio — gave the show a strong emotional core amid the courtroom theatrics.
What We Know About Season 2
While CBS hasn’t announced an exact premiere date, the series will return to its Thursday night perch this fall. Based on typical network scheduling patterns, many insiders predict a late September debut — possibly Thursday, September 25, 2025.
Season 2 is expected to deepen Matty’s ongoing fight for justice, with several unresolved storylines from the Season 1 finale likely to resurface. Will Matty face consequences for bending the rules in court? Will her past finally catch up to her? These lingering questions suggest a more intense and serialized sophomore season.
CBS’s Fall Strategy
Matlock anchors Thursday nights as CBS aims to create a compelling weekly lineup built around familiarity and fresh intrigue. It joins other returning dramas and several new shows, as CBS continues to lean into character-driven narratives with built-in fan appeal.
As legal dramas remain one of the most reliable genres in primetime television, Matlock’s renewal signals CBS’s confidence in the show’s continued potential. The combination of a seasoned lead actress, rich source material, and topical cases makes it a valuable asset.
Looking Ahead
For fans, the wait until fall may feel long — but the promise of new episodes, more courtroom drama, and Matty Matlock’s defiant charm makes it well worth it. CBS has found a winning formula in balancing nostalgia with relevance, and Matlock is a shining example of that approach.
