The Best Episodes of the Old ‘Matlock’ with Andy Griffith, Ranked
When it comes to classic TV courtroom dramas, few shows can hold a candle to Matlock. With Andy Griffith at the helm as the brilliant and folksy defense attorney Ben Matlock, the series combined gripping legal cases, humor, and the Southern charm that Griffith perfected in his earlier role as Andy Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show. Over nine seasons, Matlock delivered countless memorable episodes, but some stood out more than others.
So, which episodes are the cream of the crop? Let’s dive into the best Matlock episodes, ranked and ready to binge.
What Made Matlock So Iconic?
Before we jump into the rankings, let’s reflect on why Matlock resonated with audiences. Much of its charm came from Andy Griffith’s portrayal of Ben Matlock—a shrewd lawyer with a love for hot dogs, a disdain for frivolous spending, and a knack for solving even the trickiest cases. His down-to-earth demeanor made him relatable, while his courtroom skills left viewers in awe.
Now, onto the episodes that defined the show.
1. “The Judge” (Season 1, Episode 1)
Why It’s Ranked the Best: This is the episode that started it all, and it set the tone for the entire series. In The Judge, Matlock defends a TV journalist accused of murdering a judge—a case that’s complicated by personal grudges and hidden motives.
Memorable Moment: Matlock’s cross-examination scene is pure gold, showcasing his talent for uncovering the truth in the most unexpected ways.
2. “The Don” (Season 6, Episode 1)
Why It Stands Out: The Don is unforgettable for its high-stakes drama. Matlock defends the son of a mob boss accused of murder, which puts him in the crosshairs of organized crime.
What Makes It Great: The tension is palpable, and Griffith’s performance is riveting as he navigates the dangers of taking on the mob.
3. “The Angel” (Season 3, Episode 14)
Plot Highlights: In this emotional episode, Matlock represents a young woman accused of killing her abusive boyfriend. The case is complex, touching on themes of self-defense and justice.
Why It’s a Fan Favorite: Griffith brings depth and compassion to the role, making this one of the most heartfelt episodes in the series.
4. “The Prisoner” (Season 4, Episode 15)
Why It’s Must-Watch TV: This episode takes a different turn by focusing on a prison case. Matlock defends an inmate accused of murdering a guard, and the episode explores the harsh realities of prison life.
Memorable Moment: The courtroom scenes are especially intense, with Matlock skillfully dismantling the prosecution’s case.
5. “The Fugitive” (Season 2, Episode 4)
The Plot: A doctor on the run from a murder charge turns to Matlock for help. The case takes unexpected twists as Matlock uncovers a web of lies and deceit.
Why It’s Ranked So High: This episode keeps viewers guessing until the very end, with plenty of surprises along the way.
6. “The Chef” (Season 7, Episode 5)
Plot Summary: Matlock defends a celebrity chef accused of poisoning a food critic. The case takes place in the world of high-end cuisine, adding a unique flavor to the episode.
What Makes It Memorable: The humor and tension are perfectly balanced, and the final reveal is both clever and satisfying.
7. “The Photographer” (Season 1, Episode 8)
The Case: Matlock takes on a case involving a fashion photographer accused of murder. The episode is filled with twists, as secrets from the fashion world come to light.
Why It Works: The glamorous setting and unexpected plot twists make this episode a standout.
8. “The Witness” (Season 5, Episode 10)
The Drama: Matlock defends a man accused of killing a key witness in a major trial. The stakes are sky-high, and the tension never lets up.
Best Moment: The courtroom showdown, where Matlock uses his trademark wit to expose the real killer.
9. “The Heiress” (Season 3, Episode 5)
The Case: A wealthy heiress is accused of murdering her father, and Matlock must sift through family secrets to uncover the truth.
Why It’s a Classic: The family drama adds an extra layer of intrigue, and the resolution is both surprising and satisfying.
10. “The D.A.” (Season 1, Episode 12)
Plot Summary: Matlock faces off against a tough district attorney in a high-profile murder case.
Why It’s a Fan Favorite: The courtroom scenes are electric, and the dynamic between Matlock and the D.A. keeps things interesting.
Matlock’s Legacy
Even after all these years, Matlock remains a beloved classic. Its blend of courtroom drama, compelling characters, and Andy Griffith’s unforgettable performance has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, these episodes are a great place to start.
Conclusion
From uncovering hidden motives to delivering unforgettable courtroom moments, Matlock had a way of keeping viewers hooked. Each episode showcased Ben Matlock’s brilliance, and Andy Griffith’s charisma made every case feel personal. So, grab some popcorn (or a hot dog, in true Matlock fashion) and revisit these timeless episodes.
FAQs
1. What is the best episode of Matlock?
The Judge (Season 1, Episode 1) is often considered the best episode because it established the show’s tone and introduced viewers to Ben Matlock’s unique style.
2. Why was Andy Griffith’s performance as Matlock so popular?
Griffith’s charm, wit, and ability to balance humor with drama made him the perfect choice for the role of Ben Matlock.
3. How many seasons of Matlock are there?
Matlock ran for nine seasons, from 1986 to 1995.
4. Is Matlock available for streaming?
Yes, Matlock can be streamed on various platforms, including Amazon Prime and Pluto TV.
5. Did any guest stars appear on Matlock?
Yes, many well-known actors guest-starred on Matlock, including Don Knotts, Bryan Cranston, and Dick Van Dyke.
