Fans of Kathy Bates are in for a double treat in Season 2 of CBS’ Matlock. Not only is the Oscar-winning star returning as Matty, but for the first time in nearly two decades, she’s stepping behind the camera to direct.
A Return to Directing
In a recent Vanity Fair interview, Bates revealed that she will direct an episode of the upcoming season. While she didn’t specify which one, insiders suggest the episode will be deeply character-driven, potentially exploring Matty’s backstory in more intimate detail.
“I’m doing everything I was trained to do,” Bates said of the experience, adding that she sees directing as a continuation of her passion for storytelling. “It’s not that I hit every note right, but I get to try—and I keep trying.”
On-Set Leadership
Co-star Skye P. Marshall praised Bates’ presence behind the scenes: “She tells directors, ‘Don’t let me be good—challenge me to be great.’” That same philosophy will likely carry into her directing style, pushing cast and crew to elevate their performances.
The Episode Fans Are Waiting For
While Bates is known for her powerhouse acting, her previous directing work—including episodes of Six Feet Under and NYPD Blue—received critical acclaim. Expectations are high, and if Season 2 delivers the same blend of legal intrigue and emotional complexity, Bates’ directorial return could become one of the season’s most talked-about moments.
