No, there is not a new episode of Matlock on tonight. The beloved legal drama, which originally aired from 1986 to 1995, concluded its run and is no longer in production. While reruns are common on various networks and streaming services, new episodes have not been commissioned, though a reboot is in the works.
The Enduring Appeal of Andy Griffith’s Matlock
Matlock, starring Andy Griffith as the folksy yet brilliant criminal defense attorney Ben Matlock, captured the hearts of audiences with its blend of engaging mysteries, compelling characters, and a satisfyingly predictable format. Each episode typically revolved around Matlock defending a seemingly guilty client, meticulously uncovering evidence, and ultimately exposing the real perpetrator in a dramatic courtroom showdown. Griffith’s portrayal of Matlock as a shrewd lawyer who enjoyed hot dogs and down-to-earth charm resonated deeply, making the character a television icon.
The show’s longevity and continued popularity are testament to its well-crafted storytelling and Griffith’s captivating performance. Even decades after its finale, viewers continue to tune in to reruns, drawn to the comfort and predictability of the Matlock formula. The series provides a nostalgic trip back to a simpler era of television, where complex legal cases were solved with intelligence and wit, and justice ultimately prevailed. This lasting appeal is why the prospect of a reboot excites so many fans.
Unpacking the Current Status of Matlock
While a new episode of the original series is unfortunately not on the horizon, the legal world isn’t entirely silent. News about a reboot starring Kathy Bates has generated substantial buzz. This new Matlock, reimagined with a female lead, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the classic formula. Early details suggest the show will retain the core elements of legal mystery and courtroom drama, but with a modern sensibility.
However, it is important to note that at the time of this writing, no specific air date for the reboot has been officially announced. Development is ongoing, and updates are expected in the coming months. Fans eagerly await news of when they can expect to see Kathy Bates step into the iconic role, bringing her own unique brand of legal acumen to the screen.
Matlock FAQs: Your Questions Answered
To provide further clarity and context, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Matlock, both the original series and the planned reboot.
H3: General Questions About the Original Matlock
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Where can I watch reruns of the original Matlock? Matlock reruns frequently air on channels such as Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, MeTV, and digital subchannels. Streaming services like Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube TV also sometimes offer episodes on demand, so check your preferred platform’s listings. Be aware availability changes frequently.
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How many seasons of Matlock were there? The original Matlock ran for nine seasons, starting on NBC for the first six seasons before moving to ABC for the final three.
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Who created Matlock? Dean Hargrove and Joel Steiger created Matlock. They were also responsible for other successful mystery series like Diagnosis: Murder and Jake and the Fatman.
H3: Delving into the Characters and Cast
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Who played Ben Matlock’s daughter? Several actresses played Ben Matlock’s daughters or associates throughout the series. These included Lori Lethin, Linda Purl, Julie Sommars, and Nancy Stafford.
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What was Ben Matlock’s fee? In the show, Ben Matlock often charged a high fee, reportedly $100,000, but this was often flexible depending on the client’s circumstances and the complexity of the case. This became a running joke throughout the series.
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Did Andy Griffith ever direct any episodes of Matlock? Yes, Andy Griffith directed several episodes of Matlock during its nine-season run.
H3: Exploring the Reboot and Future Prospects
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When is the Matlock reboot expected to air? As of now, there is no confirmed air date for the Matlock reboot starring Kathy Bates. Stay tuned to official network announcements and reputable entertainment news sources for updates.
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Will the reboot be similar to the original Matlock? While details are still emerging, the reboot is expected to maintain the core elements of the original series, including a brilliant lawyer solving complex cases. However, it will likely feature a modern setting, updated legal procedures, and Kathy Bates’ unique interpretation of the title character.
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What network will the Matlock reboot be on? The Matlock reboot is set to air on CBS.
H3: Unveiling Behind-the-Scenes Facts
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Was Matlock filmed on location? Matlock was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, but location shooting also took place in other areas, depending on the specific episode’s storyline.
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What was Andy Griffith doing before Matlock? Prior to Matlock, Andy Griffith was best known for his iconic roles in The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock built upon his already established popularity and cemented his status as a television legend.
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Why did Matlock move from NBC to ABC? The move from NBC to ABC was due to various factors, including contractual negotiations and creative differences. ABC offered better compensation and more creative control, leading to the network switch for the final three seasons. This move was not uncommon for television shows at the time, as networks constantly sought popular programming to boost ratings.