When CBS announced it was rebooting the classic legal drama Matlock, many questioned whether modern audiences would connect with a series originally made famous by Andy Griffith. But thanks to a clever creative shift and the powerhouse presence of Kathy Bates, the 2024 version has not only found its footing—it’s become one of CBS’s most talked-about new dramas.
Rather than retelling the same old stories, the reboot introduces Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a retired attorney portrayed by Kathy Bates, who steps back into the courtroom for personal reasons. Following her daughter’s tragic overdose, Matty embeds herself into a major New York law firm to investigate the pharmaceutical industry’s hidden corruption. This isn’t just courtroom drama—this is personal justice.
What sets Matlock apart is its fusion of classic and contemporary. The show features a case-of-the-week format that legal drama fans expect, but beneath that structure lies a slow-burning revenge arc, deep character work, and surprising plot twists. From unexpected pregnancies to corporate conspiracies, each episode builds toward something larger.
Audiences have responded positively, especially to Bates’s performance. Critics have praised her for bringing a mix of warmth, wit, and ferocity to the role. The reboot doesn’t lean solely on nostalgia; it stands firmly on its own merits—with sleek production values, compelling writing, and a cast that delivers on all fronts.
As CBS prepares for Season 2 this fall, the network has doubled down on its bet. The new season promises even more emotional stakes and ethical gray areas as Matty and her colleagues wrestle with personal demons and legal dilemmas alike.
Far from being just another reboot, Matlock has proven itself to be a smart, sharp legal drama for the streaming age—one that blends intellect with heart, and legacy with bold reinvention.
