Introduction: Why ‘Matlock’ Still Matters Today
If you grew up watching courtroom TV in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, chances are ‘Matlock’ was a weekly staple in your household. Starring the incomparable Andy Griffith as the sharp yet folksy defense attorney Ben Matlock, this legal drama ran from 1986 to 1995 and built a loyal following that continues to rewatch it today. But beyond the trademark gray suit, hot dogs, and dramatic final cross-examinations, there’s a whole world of fun facts, quirky moments, and behind-the-scenes gems that make the original Matlock truly legendary.
Let’s dive deep into the world of Ben Matlock, uncovering what made this courtroom series tick—and why it still holds a special place in TV history.
The Origin Story of ‘Matlock’
When Did ‘Matlock’ Premiere?
Matlock first hit the airwaves on March 3, 1986, as a two-hour pilot movie on NBC. That episode drew enough attention to greenlight a full series, which officially debuted on September 23, 1986.
The Inspiration Behind Ben Matlock’s Character
The character of Ben Matlock was inspired by Perry Mason, but with a more Southern, down-home twist. The creators wanted a lawyer who wasn’t just smart but also charming, relatable, and a bit eccentric.
Andy Griffith’s Return to TV Stardom
From Sheriff Andy to Attorney Ben
Andy Griffith was already a household name thanks to The Andy Griffith Show, but Matlock proved he could carry another major series, this time as a legal mastermind.
Why Andy Griffith Almost Didn’t Do ‘Matlock’
Believe it or not, Griffith wasn’t immediately sold on doing another TV show. He was worried about being typecast and wasn’t keen on returning to a weekly series grind. But once he saw the character and script, he changed his mind.
That Iconic Gray Suit Had a Purpose
Why Did Matlock Always Wear the Same Suit?
Ben Matlock’s gray suit wasn’t just a costume—it became a trademark. Griffith said he wanted a signature look, something fans would instantly recognize. It also helped keep wardrobe costs low and reinforced Matlock’s no-nonsense personality.
Griffith’s Real-Life Quirk Influenced the Wardrobe
Andy Griffith reportedly hated wasting time choosing clothes, so wearing the same suit mirrored his personal preference for simplicity.
Food Was a Running Gag—And There’s a Reason
Matlock’s Love for Hot Dogs Wasn’t Random
Ben Matlock’s constant craving for hot dogs added a touch of humor. Griffith once admitted the hot dog obsession was a running inside joke, poking fun at the idea of a high-powered lawyer who preferred junk food over fine dining.
Andy Griffith Didn’t Actually Like Hot Dogs
In a twist of irony, Griffith didn’t enjoy eating hot dogs all that much. But he played it off well, scarfing them down like a pro when the cameras rolled.
The Show’s Secret Formula for Success
Every Episode Followed a Winning Pattern
Most Matlock episodes followed a formula: a murder occurs, Matlock takes the case, and through clever cross-examinations and moral insight, he reveals the true culprit—often in a shocking courtroom twist.
Viewers Loved the Predictability
The show’s formula wasn’t a flaw—it was a strength. Audiences knew what to expect and tuned in for the comfort of watching Matlock win every single time.
It Was Filmed in Two Different Cities
From L.A. to Wilmington, North Carolina
Matlock started production in Los Angeles, but by the third season, filming moved to Wilmington, NC. This gave the show a more authentic Southern backdrop, aligning with Matlock’s Georgia roots.
Why the Move Happened
The relocation was driven partly by tax incentives and a desire to change scenery. Plus, Griffith enjoyed working closer to his home state.
Guest Stars Galore
Future Stars Appeared on ‘Matlock’
Before they were household names, stars like Billy Bob Thornton, Bryan Cranston, and Kathy Bates appeared in small roles on Matlock. The show was a low-key training ground for up-and-coming talent.
Familiar Faces from ‘The Andy Griffith Show’ Returned
Griffith often invited former co-stars to appear, like Don Knotts, who played Matlock’s neighbor Les “Ace” Calhoun in several episodes.
Matlock Was a Spin-Off…Sort Of
The Connection to ‘Jake and the Fatman’
The show actually inspired a spin-off: Jake and the Fatman, which later birthed Diagnosis: Murder. That makes Matlock the grandfather of a whole mini TV universe.
The Show Had a Long Syndication Life
‘Matlock’ Never Really Went Away
After the original series ended in 1995, Matlock lived on through reruns on networks like TBS, Hallmark, and MeTV, gaining new fans in every generation.
International Appeal
Surprisingly, Matlock found fans around the world, including in the UK and Australia, where its brand of Americana and legal drama struck a chord.
Andy Griffith Had Major Creative Control
More Than Just the Star
Griffith wasn’t just an actor—he had significant input on scripts, casting, and direction. He often worked behind the scenes to keep the tone consistent and the writing sharp.
The Character of Matlock Was Based in Atlanta
A Southern Setting with Global Appeal
Though filmed elsewhere, Ben Matlock’s practice was set in Atlanta, Georgia, a conscious choice to represent a Southern legal hero who was smart, relatable, and always one step ahead.
It Was a Hit With Seniors—And That Was No Accident
Targeted Viewership Strategy
NBC and later ABC tailored the show to older audiences, especially those who loved procedural dramas. The slower pacing and moral storytelling made it a favorite among retirees and families alike.
Matlock’s Legacy Lives On
The 2024 Reboot Starring Kathy Bates
In 2024, CBS launched a reimagined ‘Matlock’ series starring Kathy Bates, proving that the legacy of Ben Matlock is far from over. Bates plays a modern take on the character, continuing the tradition of courtroom brilliance and Southern charm.
Conclusion: Why We Still Love ‘Matlock’
Matlock wasn’t just another courtroom drama. It had heart, humor, and the charm of a TV legend in Andy Griffith. Whether you watched it live back in the day or stumbled onto it in reruns, there’s something timeless about watching Ben Matlock crack a case with Southern grace and legal genius.
It may have started in the ’80s, but Matlock remains a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and audience loyalty. And that’s no small feat.
FAQs
1. Was Andy Griffith really a lawyer in real life?
No, Andy Griffith wasn’t a lawyer. He was a trained actor and musician who simply played one of TV’s most beloved attorneys.
2. How many seasons of ‘Matlock’ are there?
There are 9 seasons of Matlock, spanning from 1986 to 1995, with a total of 193 episodes.
3. Why did the show switch networks from NBC to ABC?
NBC canceled Matlock in 1992, but ABC picked it up due to its strong viewer base, especially among older audiences.
4. Who were Matlock’s main assistants on the show?
Over the years, Matlock worked with several assistants, including Charlene Matlock (his daughter), Michelle Thomas, and Conrad McMasters (played by Clarence Gilyard Jr.).
5. Is ‘Matlock’ available to stream today?
Yes! You can stream Matlock on platforms like Peacock, Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, and some episodes on YouTube, depending on availability.
