Picture this: It’s Friday night. You’re curled up on the couch, maybe with some popcorn. On the TV screen, a sharp lawyer in a light gray suit walks into a crowded courtroom. He looks friendly, maybe even a bit like a grandpa. But don’t be fooled! With a clever question and a surprising piece of evidence, he catches the real killer right there in front of everyone. That’s the magic of Matlock! Whether you remember the classic Matlock (1986) show or are excited about the brand-new Matlock 2025 version, this drama series is all about smart solutions and satisfying wins. Let’s unlock the world of Matlock!
So, What Is Matlock? Name, Place, or TV Legend?
First things first: What does the word Matlock mean? Well, it’s the name of a real, pretty town in England! But for millions of TV fans around the world, Matlock means one thing: Ben Matlock, the brilliant Southern lawyer played for nine amazing seasons by the beloved actor Andy Griffith. He was like a super-smart detective and lawyer rolled into one! (Just a note: “Matlock machine” isn’t part of the show; that’s a type of construction equipment.)
The Original Classic: Why Ben Matlock Won Our Hearts (1986-1995)
For almost ten years, the original Matlock was a huge TV hit. Why did people love it so much?
- Ben Matlock Himself: Andy Griffith made Ben feel like family – warm, funny, and incredibly smart. He loved hot dogs, drove a cool old car, and could always figure out the truth. He proved that brains beat brawn!
- The Exciting Pattern: Most Matlock episodes followed a fun path: Ben took a case, someone got murdered, Ben’s client looked super guilty, Ben investigated (finding clues everyone else missed!), and then BAM! He revealed the real killer in a dramatic courtroom scene. It was exciting every time!
- Awesome Helpers: Ben always had great friends and helpers on his team, like Tyler, Michelle, and Conrad. The Matlock cast felt like a real group of pals working together.
- Lots of Mysteries! Wondering how many episodes there were? A whopping 195 episodes filled with puzzles and courtroom drama! Fans and critics still love it, giving it a strong score on sites like Matlock Rotten Tomatoes.
Matlock Returns! Meet “Matty” Matlock, Played by Kathy Bates (2024!)
Big news! In 2024, Matlock flew back onto our screens! CBS launched a fresh new Matlock television show, this time starring the amazing Oscar-winning actress Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock.
- A Brand-New Hero: “Matty” is a super-smart lawyer who comes back to work after a tough time. She joins a fancy law firm and uses her unique smarts and understanding of people to win tough cases. She’s brilliant, a bit sassy, and determined!
- Kathy Bates is Perfect: Bates brings her incredible talent to “Matty,” making her clever, funny, and someone you root for immediately. The new Matlock cast includes other great actors like Skye P. Marshall and Jason Ritter.
- Season 1 is a Hit! The first season (10 exciting episodes) introduced Matty and her clever way of practicing law. Fans loved it and are now asking: Is there a season 2 of New Matlock? While CBS hasn’t officially said “yes” to Matlock Season 2 yet (fans often call it Matlock 2025), the great response means it’s very likely! Keep an eye out for news about Matlock’s new episodes.
Where Can You Watch Matlock? Your Easy Streaming Guide!
Ready to watch Ben or Matty solve some mysteries? Here’s where to watch:
- The Classic Matlock (Andy Griffith):
- Matlock Streaming: Watch most seasons with a Peacock Premium subscription. You might also find it on free, ad-supported apps like Pluto TV or The Roku Channel (check their live TV guides or movie sections).
- Matlock Netflix? Not right now in the US. Peacock is your best spot.
- DVDs: You can buy DVD sets of the whole original series.
- The New Matlock (Kathy Bates):
- New Episodes on TV: Watch it live on CBS (check your local TV guide).
- Matlock Streaming (New Series): Watch full episodes soon after they air on Paramount+ (that’s CBS’s own streaming app).
- Where can I watch the new Matlock series? Paramount+ is the main streaming home. You might also buy episodes on Amazon Prime Video or Vudu.
- Matlock Netflix? The new show isn’t on Netflix currently. It stays with Paramount+.
Finding Specific Shows & What’s Next
- Matlock Episode Guide: Need to find Matlock episode 20 or remember a specific case? Websites like IMDb (Internet Movie Database) or TV Guide have lists of every episode for both shows.
- Matlock Next Episode: For the new series, check the CBS TV schedule or the Paramount+ app for dates and times once new seasons are confirmed.
Why Do We Still Love Matlock? An Expert Explains
“Matlock works because everyone loves seeing the smartest person in the room win, especially when they’re fighting for what’s right,” says TV expert Dr. Sarah Miller. “The original gave us comfort and clever puzzles. The reboot, with the fantastic Kathy Bates, brings a powerful new energy. It shows that a brilliant mind solving mysteries and helping people is a story that never gets old. It’s about using your wits to beat the bad guys!”
Ready for a Matlock Marathon?
Whether you want the cozy charm of Andy Griffith’s original Matlock television show or the fresh, sharp energy of Kathy Bates in Matlock 2025, there’s plenty of courtroom excitement waiting for you. Grab your snacks, get comfy, and enjoy the clever twists and big wins!
Have you watched the classic Matlock or the new series? Who’s your favorite character – Ben or Matty? What was the best courtroom surprise you’ve seen? Are you hoping for Matlock Season 2? Share your thoughts and favorite Matlock moments in the comments below!
