Matlock's Grand Return To CBS: Your Ultimate Premiere Guide

Timmy Blanda 21 Jun 2025

For fans eagerly awaiting the return of a legal drama icon, the question of "when is Matlock coming to CBS?" has been on everyone's minds. The classic legal procedural, known for its clever courtroom tactics and charming protagonist, is being reimagined for a new generation, starring the incomparable Kathy Bates. This highly anticipated reboot promises to deliver the same sharp wit and compelling mysteries that made the original a household name, but with a fresh, contemporary twist. Get ready to mark your calendars, because CBS is bringing a new brand of justice to your screens.

The buzz surrounding the new Matlock series has been palpable since its initial announcement. With an Emmy and Academy Award winner at the helm, the show is poised to be a major highlight of CBS's upcoming programming slate. Whether you're a long-time admirer of the original Ben Matlock or a newcomer eager for a smart, character-driven legal drama, this article will serve as your comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the new Matlock on CBS, from its premiere dates and time slots to the brilliant mind behind the new Matlock herself.

What is the New Matlock on CBS?
Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock: A Brilliant Attorney
The Initial Premiere of Matlock Season 1
Matlock Season 1 Returns: Mid-Season 2025
When is Matlock Season 2 Coming to CBS?
Matlock's Regular Airing Schedule on CBS
Why the Delay and What to Expect from Matlock
How to Watch Matlock on CBS and Beyond
About Kathy Bates: The Star of Matlock

What is the New Matlock on CBS?

The new Matlock is an American legal drama television series that serves as a reboot of the classic 1986 show. While the original featured Ben Matlock, a Georgia-bred, Harvard-educated defense attorney known for his southern charm and knack for freeing innocent clients, the new iteration introduces a fresh perspective. This modern take centers on Madeline Matlock, a brilliant septuagenarian attorney, portrayed by the incredibly talented Kathy Bates. After achieving success in her younger years, Madeline decides to rejoin the workforce at a prestigious law firm, where she uses her cleverness and sharp legal mind to navigate complex cases. The new show is coming to CBS this fall, promising a blend of mystery, drama, and the compelling character work that Kathy Bates is renowned for. Here's everything you need to know about your potentially new favorite mystery series.

Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock: A Brilliant Attorney

At the heart of the new Matlock series is Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates, who stars as Madeline Matlock. Her character is described as a brilliant attorney who, after a period of success, makes the decision to rejoin the workforce. She steps into a prestigious law firm, where her unparalleled cleverness and extensive experience become invaluable assets. This portrayal of Matlock is not just a gender swap; it's an opportunity to explore the character's depth and wisdom gained over a lifetime. Bates brings a gravitas and an undeniable presence to the role, ensuring that Madeline Matlock is a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom and beyond. Her ability to embody complex characters makes her the perfect choice to redefine this iconic legal figure for a contemporary audience. The series will delve into her journey as she uses her sharp intellect to defend clients, much like her predecessor, but with a unique style that only Kathy Bates can deliver.

The Initial Premiere of Matlock Season 1

The journey of the new Matlock to CBS has been a bit staggered, building anticipation among viewers. The series officially premiered with a special sneak peek on **Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 8 p.m.** This strategic move by CBS was designed to introduce the show to a broad audience during a high-visibility slot. Following this initial preview, Matlock then settled into its regular weekly Thursday night time slot. The official timeslot premiere for Matlock Season 1 was on **Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 9 p.m. ET/PT**, as part of CBS Premiere Week. This established the show's home on Thursday nights, a traditional slot for many of CBS's popular dramas. The network also released a trailer for the show, which stars Oscar winner Kathy Bates, further fueling excitement for its debut. This dual-premiere approach allowed for maximum exposure and gave viewers a taste of what was to come before the show settled into its consistent schedule.

Matlock Season 1 Returns: Mid-Season 2025

After its initial run, fans were left wanting more, and CBS confirmed that Matlock would be returning to complete its first season. Matlock will return with the second half of Season 1 on **Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 9/8c**. This mid-season return is a common strategy for networks to extend the lifespan of a season and maintain viewer engagement. The show will pick up where it left off, continuing Madeline Matlock's legal adventures and character development. For those who might have missed the initial episodes or are eager to catch up, this return date provides a clear point of re-entry. You can see the full CBS 2025 midseason premiere schedule to plan your viewing. This continuation ensures that the narrative arc of Season 1 is fully explored, setting the stage for future developments in Madeline Matlock's career and personal life as she re-establishes herself in the legal world.

When is Matlock Season 2 Coming to CBS?

For dedicated viewers, the question of "when is Matlock season 2 coming to CBS?" is paramount, and there's exciting news. In April 2024, the network officially renewed Matlock for a second season, a testament to its promising performance and the star power of Kathy Bates. Unlike its somewhat delayed debut for Season 1, Season 2 is firmly part of the fall 2025 primetime lineup. This means fans can expect a more traditional fall premiere. While no exact premiere date has been announced yet, it was recently revealed that Matlock Season 2 will premiere this fall on CBS, per the fall 2025 calendar. We expect the second season to debut in **Fall 2025**. This early renewal and clear placement in the fall schedule signal CBS's confidence in the series and its potential to become a long-running hit. Fans can look forward to more clever legal battles and compelling storytelling as Madeline Matlock continues to navigate the complexities of the legal world.

Matlock's Regular Airing Schedule on CBS

Once Matlock settles into its groove, both for the remainder of Season 1 and for the upcoming Season 2, its airing schedule on CBS will be consistent. The show will air on **Thursdays at 9/8c**, just like Season 1. This establishes a clear and reliable time slot for viewers to tune in each week. For example, Matlock will be returning with a new episode on **Thursday, April 3, 2025, at its usual time, 9 p.m.** This consistency is key for building a loyal viewership, allowing fans to easily incorporate the show into their weekly routines. CBS confirmed in July 2024 that the show will be part of their fall lineup, reinforcing its position as a staple in their primetime schedule. Knowing that Matlock will consistently air on Thursday nights at 9 p.m. provides clarity and allows viewers to anticipate new episodes without confusion, making it easier to follow Madeline Matlock's intricate legal cases.

Why the Delay and What to Expect from Matlock

The journey to the screen for the new Matlock has been longer than some might have anticipated, with nearly 17 months passing since its initial development. This kind of delay is not uncommon in television production, often stemming from various factors such as script refinements, casting decisions, production logistics, or network scheduling adjustments. Despite the extended wait, the anticipation for Matlock coming to CBS has only grown. The network's decision to give it a special sneak peek on Sunday, September 22, 2024, before its regular Thursday slot on October 17, 2024, indicates a strategic effort to maximize its exposure and build early momentum. For Season 2, the renewal and placement in the fall 2025 primetime lineup suggest a smoother, more traditional rollout. Viewers can expect a show that leverages Kathy Bates' incredible talent to create a nuanced and intelligent legal drama. The series aims to blend the nostalgic charm of the original with a modern sensibility, focusing on Madeline Matlock's unique approach to justice. Her cleverness and ability to uncover hidden truths will be central to the show's appeal, promising engaging mysteries and satisfying resolutions each week. The following contains spoilers from the Sept. 22 sneak peek, offering a glimpse into the show's tone and character dynamics, which further fuels excitement for its full run.

How to Watch Matlock on CBS and Beyond

To catch all the legal brilliance of Madeline Matlock, the primary way to watch the new series is directly on CBS. As confirmed, Matlock will air Thursday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT. For those with traditional cable or satellite television, simply tune into your local CBS affiliate at the designated time. However, in today's diverse media landscape, there are multiple ways to access CBS content. Live streaming services that include CBS in their channel lineup, such as YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV, will allow you to watch episodes as they air. Additionally, new episodes are typically available on demand shortly after their broadcast on the CBS website and the Paramount+ streaming service. Paramount+ is often the go-to platform for streaming CBS shows, offering both live TV options and an extensive library of on-demand content. While the original Matlock can be streamed for free on Pluto TV, the new series will primarily be available through CBS and Paramount+ for live and on-demand viewing, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of Kathy Bates' captivating performance as she uses her cleverness to solve complex legal puzzles.

About Kathy Bates: The Star of Matlock

Kathy Bates, the powerhouse actress leading the new Matlock, is a true titan of the screen. Her career spans decades, marked by an impressive range of roles that have earned her critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards. Her presence as Madeline Matlock is a significant draw for the series, bringing a depth and authenticity that few actors can achieve. Understanding her background helps appreciate the caliber of talent she brings to this highly anticipated reboot.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Kathleen Doyle Bates was born on June 28, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee. She developed an early interest in acting and pursued her passion by attending Southern Methodist University, where she majored in theatre. After graduating in 1969, she moved to New York City to pursue a career on stage. Her early years in the industry were characterized by a steady stream of off-Broadway and regional theater productions, where she honed her craft. While she made her film debut in 1971, it was her work in theater that truly established her reputation as a formidable actress, setting the stage for her eventual breakthrough into mainstream success.

Key Achievements and Accolades

Kathy Bates' career is adorned with a remarkable collection of awards and nominations. Her breakout role came in 1990 with the film adaptation of Stephen King's Misery, for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. This iconic performance solidified her status as a leading lady capable of delivering intense and memorable portrayals. She has since received multiple Academy Award nominations for films like Primary Colors (1998), About Schmidt (2002), and Richard Jewell (2019). On television, Bates has been equally successful, earning two Primetime Emmy Awards for her roles in Two and a Half Men (2012) and American Horror Story: Coven (2014). Her versatility is evident in her ability to seamlessly transition between dramatic, comedic, and even horror roles, always bringing a unique blend of vulnerability and strength to her characters. Her impressive filmography includes classics such as Titanic, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Dolores Claiborne, showcasing her enduring impact on Hollywood.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Beyond her professional achievements, Kathy Bates is also known for her resilience and advocacy. She is a two-time cancer survivor, having battled ovarian cancer in 2003 and breast cancer in 2012. Her experiences have led her to become a passionate advocate for cancer research and lymphedema awareness, a condition she developed after her breast cancer treatment. Bates uses her platform to raise awareness and support for these causes, inspiring many with her courage and openness. Her personal journey adds another layer of depth to her public persona, making her not just a celebrated actress but also a respected figure for her humanitarian efforts. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to important social causes make her an even more compelling figure to watch as she takes on the role of Madeline Matlock.

Kathy Bates: Personal Data & Biodata

Full Name	Kathleen Doyle Bates
Date of Birth	June 28, 1948
Place of Birth	Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actress, Director
Years Active	1971–present
Education	Southern Methodist University (BFA)
Spouse(s)	Tony Campisi (m. 1991; div. 1997)
Notable Awards	Academy Award (Best Actress), 2 Primetime Emmy Awards, 2 Golden Globe Awards, 2 Screen Actors Guild Awards

Conclusion

The return of Matlock to CBS, with the phenomenal Kathy Bates leading the charge as Madeline Matlock, is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated television events. We've covered everything from the initial sneak peek on September 22, 2024, and its regular slot on October 17, 2024, to the exciting news of Season 2 premiering in Fall 2025. The consistent Thursday night 9/8c time slot ensures that fans can easily follow Madeline Matlock's clever legal maneuvers and compelling cases. With a brilliant attorney at its core and the backing of CBS, the new Matlock is set to become a must-watch series, blending classic legal drama elements with a fresh, contemporary feel.

Are you excited for the new Matlock on CBS? What are you most looking forward to seeing from Kathy Bates' portrayal of Madeline Matlock? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! And if you're curious about other upcoming CBS shows or legal dramas, be sure to explore more articles on our site to stay fully informed.

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