After just two seasons, Matlock has become a cornerstone of CBS's lineup, earning rave reviews and a loyal fanbase. The crime drama, which was renewed for a third season earlier this year, is gearing up for a new mystery following the explosive conclusion of the Wellbrexa case in the Season 2 finale. Titled "Matty Matlock," the finale saw Matty finally avenge her daughter's death, while those responsible for hiding key details in the Wellbrexa case were exposed and arrested. As a result, the future of Matty and Olympia's partnership—and the law firm Jacobson and Moore—hangs in the balance.
While an official premiere date for Matlock Season 3 has yet to be announced, it's been confirmed that the show will air during CBS's midseason 2026-27 schedule. Recent reports indicate that production is already underway and will likely continue through the end of the year, meaning fans shouldn't expect the show to return before 2027. An official announcement for an early 2027 premiere is expected soon.
In a recent interview with TV Insider, Beau Bridges, who plays Howard "Senior" Markston, offered a promising update on the show's filming timeline. "I'm going to work on Matlock in December," Bridges said. "They just started now, so the timing worked out for me to be able to do R.J. [Decker] as well." Bridges' character, a managing partner at Jacobson Moore, was jailed for his role in the Wellbrexa cover-up alongside his son Julian, who helped expose his corrupt father but was arrested as part of his own attempt to atone for his involvement.
Bridges' mention of R.J. Decker is a nod to his other project, the second season of R.J. Decker, which he's also juggling. This dual commitment shows how the actor is balancing his busy schedule, and it's great news for fans of both shows.
For those unfamiliar with the cast, Matlock is led by the incomparable Kathy Bates as Madeline "Matty" Matlock, a brilliant septuagenarian who poses as a widowed lawyer returning to the workforce. Her unassuming demeanor allows her to navigate a prestigious law firm while secretly seeking justice for her daughter's death. The ensemble also includes Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Lawrence, a sharp senior attorney and key rainmaker at the firm; Jason Ritter as Julian Markston, a partner and Olympia's ex-husband; Leah Lewis as Sarah Franklin, an ambitious junior associate; and David Del Rio as Billy Martinez, a charismatic junior associate. In supporting roles, Sam Anderson and Aaron Harris portray Matty's husband and grandson, respectively.
As production continues, fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the upcoming season. The show's ability to blend legal drama with heartfelt character moments has made it a standout in the genre. With the Wellbrexa case behind them, the new season promises to explore fresh territory, and the uncertainty surrounding the firm's future adds an extra layer of intrigue.
While we wait for the official premiere date, you can catch up on all the drama. Matlock streams on Paramount+ and Netflix. For more updates on your favorite shows, check out our coverage of other series returning in 2027 and renewals like Tulsa King. Stick with us for the latest on Matlock Season 3.
