By [Your Name], Published June 26, 2025
The Matlock TV show, a cornerstone of American television, captivated audiences with its blend of courtroom drama, Southern charm, and clever mystery-solving from 1986 to 1995. Starring Andy Griffith as Matlock, the series followed the titular criminal defense attorney, Ben Matlock, as he unraveled complex cases in Atlanta, Georgia. With a recent Matlock reboot led by Kathy Bates, the franchise is experiencing a resurgence, sparking renewed interest in its cast, episodes, and cultural impact. This article dives deep into the Matlock phenomenon, exploring its origins, key players, and modern revival.
The Matlock TV Show: A Legal Drama Classic
Debuting on NBC on March 3, 1986, the Matlock TV show became a beloved fixture in the legal drama genre, running for nine seasons and 193 episodes, plus a pilot movie. Created by Dean Hargrove, the series centered on Benjamin Leighton Matlock, a Harvard-educated lawyer known for his folksy demeanor, thriftiness, and knack for exposing the true culprits in dramatic courtroom scenes. Unlike many legal dramas, Matlock leaned heavily on its lead character’s charisma, blending elements of Perry Mason and Columbo to create a unique viewing experience.
The show’s format typically followed Matlock as he took on clients, often charged with murder, and used his sharp intellect to uncover overlooked clues at crime scenes. His investigations culminated in courtroom confrontations where he elicited confessions from the guilty party, securing acquittals for his clients. This “howcatchem” approach, where the audience knew the perpetrator but watched Matlock unravel the mystery, set it apart from traditional whodunits. The series aired on NBC until 1992, then moved to ABC until its finale on May 7, 1995, leaving a lasting mark on television history.
The Matlock Cast: A Talented Ensemble
The Matlock cast was instrumental in the show’s success, with Andy Griffith leading a rotating roster of talented actors. Below is a detailed look at the key players who brought the series to life.
Who Played Matlock?
Andy Griffith played Matlock, embodying the titular character with a blend of Southern charm and legal acumen. Griffith, already a household name from The Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968), brought warmth and wit to Ben Matlock. His portrayal of the attorney, who charged a hefty $100,000 per case (equivalent to over $275,000 in 2025), made him a relatable yet formidable figure. Griffith’s performance earned him critical acclaim, with his ability to shift from folksy humor to sharp courtroom tactics captivating audiences. His iconic light gray suit and love for hot dogs became defining traits, endearing him to fans.
Supporting Cast Members
- Linda Purl as Charlene Matlock (Season 1): Matlock’s daughter and law partner, Charlene, appeared in the first season, played by Lori Lethin in the pilot and Purl in the series. She assisted her father in cases, bringing a familial dynamic to the show.
- Kene Holliday as Tyler Hudson (Seasons 1–3): A private investigator and stock market whiz, Tyler went undercover to gather evidence for Matlock’s cases, adding a layer of intrigue to investigations.
- Nancy Stafford as Michelle Thomas (Seasons 2–6): A sharp attorney who joined Matlock’s firm, Michelle brought sophistication and legal expertise, often sparring with Ben in court.
- Julie Sommars as Julie March (Seasons 1–6): A prosecutor and Matlock’s friendly rival, Julie’s cordial relationship with Ben outside the courtroom added depth to their professional clashes.
- Clarence Gilyard Jr. as Conrad McMasters (Seasons 4–7): A former deputy sheriff turned private investigator, Conrad’s dynamic with Matlock was marked by loyalty and shared interests like singing. Gilyard left for Walker, Texas Ranger but returned for a guest appearance in Season 8.
- Brynn Thayer as Leanne McIntyre (Seasons 7–8): Matlock’s other daughter, Leanne, joined later, bringing a fresh father-daughter dynamic before departing in Season 9.
- Daniel Roebuck as Cliff Lewis (Seasons 7–9): A young attorney whose combative relationship with Matlock added humor and tension.
- Carol Huston as Jerri Stone (Season 9): A private investigator who joined in the final season, Jerri shared Matlock’s love for singing, echoing earlier dynamics.
Guest stars like Don Knotts, Vivica A. Fox, and Milton Berle added star power, enhancing the show’s appeal. The ensemble’s chemistry, combined with Griffith’s magnetic presence, made the Matlock cast a cornerstone of its enduring popularity.
Andy Griffith Matlock: The Heart of the Series
Andy Griffith’s portrayal of Ben Matlock was the linchpin of the series. His ability to embody a curmudgeonly yet lovable attorney made the character iconic. Griffith drew on his Southern roots, infusing Matlock with a Georgia drawl and a penchant for thriftiness—evident in his cheap suits and love for hot dogs, as highlighted in the Season 8 episode “The Diner.” His character’s backstory, including studying law at Harvard and living in a modest farmhouse, added depth, portraying Matlock as a man of principle despite his high fees.
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Griffith’s performance was informed by his earlier role as Sheriff Andy Taylor, but Matlock was distinct—a blend of folksy charm and fierce determination. His thriftiness was humorously explained in a Diagnosis: Murder crossover, where Matlock blamed a bad investment in 8-track tapes for his frugal habits. Griffith’s advancing age (he was 66 by Season 9) influenced the show’s shift to a movie-of-the-week format, allowing him more family time while maintaining the series’ quality.
Matlock Episodes: A Treasure Trove of Drama
The Matlock episodes, totaling 193 plus a pilot, offered a mix of suspense, humor, and courtroom theatrics. Each episode followed a consistent structure: Matlock took on a client, investigated the crime, and delivered a courtroom showdown. Standout episodes include:
- “The Don” (Season 1, Episodes 6–7): A two-part episode introducing characters later spun off into Jake and the Fatman. Matlock defends a client accused of murder, uncovering a complex conspiracy.
- “The Outcast” (Season 6, Episodes 14–15): Matlock, framed for a crime, faces personal stakes, showcasing Griffith’s dramatic range.
- “The Heist” (Season 9, Episode 14): A returning character adds intrigue, leaving some mystery unresolved for a compelling twist.
- “The Capital Offense” (Season 9, Episodes 5–6): Matlock takes on a death row case, highlighting his commitment to justice.
The series’ strength lay in its ability to balance formulaic storytelling with fresh twists, keeping viewers guessing until the final courtroom reveal. Fans can revisit these episodes on streaming platforms like Paramount+, which hosts all nine seasons as of January 15, 2025, or purchase them on Amazon Video.
Is Matlock on Netflix?
As of June 26, 2025, Matlock is not available on Netflix. However, fans can stream all nine seasons on Paramount+ or watch for free with ads on Pluto TV. Additionally, the complete series is available on DVD through CBS Home Entertainment, and Season 1 can be purchased on Amazon Video. For the latest streaming availability, check platforms like JustWatch to confirm current options.
The Matlock Theme Song: A Nostalgic Tune
The Matlock theme song, composed by Dick DeBenedictis, is instantly recognizable for its brassy, upbeat melody, featuring a prominent trombone part that evokes nostalgia. Often compared to the Perry Mason theme for its catchy quality, it set the tone for Matlock’s folksy yet determined character. The theme’s simplicity and energy made it a cultural touchstone, with fans on platforms like Reddit praising its memorable brass section. While not available as a standalone track on major music platforms, clips can be found on YouTube, often shared by nostalgic fans.
Matlock vs. Perry Mason: A Legal Drama Showdown
The comparison of Matlock vs. Perry Mason is inevitable, given their shared creator, Dean Hargrove, and similar formats. Both shows feature brilliant defense attorneys who solve mysteries, but key differences define their identities:
- Courtroom Approach: Perry Mason typically resolved cases at pretrial hearings, exculpating clients early, while Matlock secured acquittals through jury trials, emphasizing dramatic courtroom confrontations.
- Character Tone: Perry Mason, based in Los Angeles (later Denver), was intense and sophisticated. Matlock, set in Atlanta, was folksy and grandfatherly, using his Southern charm to disarm opponents.
- Humor and Style: Matlock incorporated more humor and character-driven moments, reflecting the 1980s and 1990s setting, while Perry Mason (1957–1966, with 1980s TV movies) leaned on serious legal drama.
- Cultural Impact: Perry Mason set the template for legal dramas, but Matlock appealed to an older demographic, as noted in TV Tropes, partly due to Griffith’s nostalgic appeal.
Both shows share a legacy of compelling storytelling, but Matlock’s lighter tone and Griffith’s charisma gave it a distinct edge, making it a beloved staple for fans of the genre.
Where Was Matlock Filmed?
Where was Matlock filmed? The series primarily shot in Los Angeles, California, during its NBC run (1986–1992), with Griffith commuting from his North Carolina home. To ease his travel burden, production moved to DEG Film Studios in Wilmington, North Carolina, for the ABC seasons (1992–1995). This shift introduced new filming locations, adding a fresh aesthetic to the show’s later years. The Matlock house, seen in exterior shots, is located in Southport, North Carolina, near the house used in Scream (1996), as noted by Reddit users. The reboot, set in New York City, was filmed at Paramount Studios in California, with the pilot shot in Toronto.
The Matlock Reboot: Kathy Bates Takes the Gavel
In a bold move, CBS premiered a Matlock reboot on September 22, 2024, starring Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock. Developed by Jennie Snyder Urman (Jane the Virgin), the series reimagines the original with a gender-swapped lead and a modern twist. Bates plays a retired lawyer who returns to work at the prestigious Jacobson Moore law firm, posing as a down-on-her-luck widow. In reality, Matty is wealthy and driven by a personal mission to seek justice for her daughter’s death in the opioid epidemic.
Key Differences from the Original
- Premise: Unlike Ben Matlock’s focus on murder cases, the reboot tackles corporate crimes, reflecting contemporary issues. Matty uses her unassuming demeanor to exploit ageist and sexist biases, a theme Urman emphasized as central to the show.
- Meta Elements: The reboot acknowledges the original Matlock as a fictional TV show within its universe, with Matty humorously noting her shared name with Griffith’s character.
- Cast: Alongside Bates, the reboot features Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Lawrence, Matty’s boss; Jason Ritter as Julian, the firm’s head’s son; David Del Rio as Billy; and Leah Lewis as Sarah. Beau Bridges recurs as Senior, the firm’s head.
- Tone: The reboot balances procedural drama with emotional depth, focusing on Matty’s grief and cunning tactics, earning a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 24 reviews.
The pilot, directed by Kat Coiro, drew strong ratings and critical praise for Bates’ commanding performance. CBS renewed the series for a second season in October 2024, signaling confidence in its success. Fans of the original can watch on CBS or stream on Paramount+, with episodes airing Thursdays at 10/9c.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Matlock’s appeal lay in its blend of nostalgia, accessibility, and Griffith’s star power. Its formulaic yet engaging storytelling made it a comfort watch, particularly for older audiences, as noted in TV Tropes. The show’s connection to other Hargrove-produced series like Jake and the Fatman and Diagnosis: Murder created a shared universe, enriching its legacy. Posts on X reflect ongoing nostalgia, with users like @landofthe80s celebrating its 1986 debut and @SouthDallasFood expressing excitement for the reboot.
The reboot, meanwhile, addresses modern themes like ageism and corporate accountability, making it relevant to new audiences. Bates’ performance, drawing on her Oscar-winning gravitas from Misery, elevates the series, proving Matlock’s adaptability. Whether through Griffith’s folksy charm or Bates’ sharp wit, Matlock remains a testament to the enduring power of legal dramas.
Conclusion
The Matlock TV show, from its 1986 debut to its 2024 reboot, showcases the timeless appeal of courtroom drama. Andy Griffith’s portrayal of Ben Matlock defined an era, blending Southern charm with legal brilliance across 193 episodes. The Matlock cast, from Linda Purl to Clarence Gilyard Jr., brought depth to the series, while its theme song and filming locations added nostalgic charm. The Kathy Bates-led reboot reinvents the franchise, tackling modern issues with a fresh perspective. Whether streaming on Paramount+ or revisiting classic episodes, Matlock continues to captivate, proving justice never goes out of style.
FAQs
Q: Who played Matlock in the original series?
A: Andy Griffith played Ben Matlock, a criminal defense attorney, in the original Matlock series from 1986 to 1995.
Q: Is Matlock available on Netflix?
A: No, Matlock is not on Netflix as of June 26, 2025. It can be streamed on Paramount+ or Pluto TV, or purchased on Amazon Video.
Q: How does Matlock compare to Perry Mason?
A: Matlock focuses on jury trials and a folksy lead, while Perry Mason resolves cases at pretrial hearings with a more serious tone. Both share a creator, Dean Hargrove, and a knack for dramatic reveals.
Q: Where was the original Matlock filmed?
A: The original series was filmed in Los Angeles, California, for NBC seasons (1986–1992) and Wilmington, North Carolina, for ABC seasons (1992–1995).
Q: What is the Matlock reboot about?
A: The 2024 reboot stars Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a retired lawyer seeking justice for her daughter’s death at a New York law firm, tackling corporate crimes with a modern twist.
Reference:
- Wikipedia: Matlock (1986 TV series)
- IMDb: Matlock (1986–1995)
- CBS: Matlock Reboot
- Paramount+: Matlock Streaming
- TV Guide: Matlock Reboot Details
