CBS isn’t closing the case on Matlock anytime soon.
After another successful season, the network officially renewed the Kathy Bates-led legal drama for Season 3. Since premiering in 2024, Matlock has become one of CBS’ biggest hits, earning strong ratings and critical acclaim while introducing viewers to a fresh take on the beloved franchise.
Here’s everything we know about Matlock Season 3.
Has Matlock Been Renewed for Season 3?
Yes.
CBS officially renewed Matlock for a third season in January 2026 as part of a wave of renewals for many of the network’s biggest scripted series.
Matlock Season 3 Release Date
While Season 3 has been confirmed, fans will have to wait a little longer than expected.
Rather than returning during the fall television season, Matlock has been moved to midseason, meaning Season 3 is expected to premiere in early 2027 on CBS. Showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman requested the later premiere so the creative team could properly develop the show’s next major storyline following the dramatic Season 2 finale.
Who Is Returning?
Although CBS hasn’t confirmed the full cast, these stars are expected to return:
Kathy Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock (Madeline Kingston) Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Lawrence Jason Ritter as Julian Markston Leah Lewis as Sarah Franklin Aaron D. Harris as Billy Martinez Beau Bridges as Howard “Senior” Markston Edwin Hodge as Elijah Walker
One notable change is that David Del Rio, who played Billy’s colleague Shae, is not expected to return following his departure from the series.
What Will Season 3 Be About?
CBS has not released an official synopsis.
However, the biggest mystery that drove the first two seasons—the Wellbrexa opioid cover-up—came to a dramatic conclusion during the Season 2 finale.
According to creator Jennie Snyder Urman, Season 3 will serve as a “big reset” for the series. While some legal fallout from the Wellbrexa case will continue, the new season will introduce an entirely new mystery involving healthcare and insurance, allowing the show to move in a fresh direction while keeping its core characters together.
Is There a Trailer?
Not yet.
Because the series won’t return until 2027, CBS has not released a teaser or official trailer for Season 3.
Fans can likely expect the first footage several months before the premiere.
Where Can You Watch Matlock?
New episodes air on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
Seasons 1 and 2 are currently available on Paramount+ for viewers who want to catch up before Season 3 arrives.
Why Has Matlock Become One of CBS’ Biggest Hits?
Although inspired by the classic Andy Griffith series, the modern Matlock tells an entirely new story centered on Madeline Kingston, a retired attorney working undercover at a prestigious law firm to uncover the truth behind her daughter’s death.
Kathy Bates’ acclaimed performance, combined with the show’s legal twists, emotional storytelling and season-long mysteries, has helped make Matlock one of the highest-rated new dramas on broadcast television.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Matlock been renewed for Season 3?
Yes. CBS officially renewed the series in January 2026.
When does Matlock Season 3 come out?
Season 3 is expected to premiere in early 2027 after moving to CBS’ midseason schedule.
Who stars in Matlock?
The series stars Kathy Bates, Skye P. Marshall, Jason Ritter, Leah Lewis, Aaron D. Harris, Beau Bridges and Edwin Hodge.
Where can I watch Matlock?
New episodes air on CBS and stream on Paramount+, where the first two seasons are also available.
Leave a Reply