Fans of courtroom drama can finally circle a date on the calendar. The Matlock season 2 release date has been confirmed for Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET on CBS. After that special launch, new episodes will move to their regular Thursday night slot beginning October 16 at 9 p.m. ET.
Streaming will be available on the same night on Paramount+ for Premium subscribers and the following day for Essentials users.
This second season is an expansion, not a continuation, of the modern take on a classic name. Season 1 left audiences with tangled storylines, unanswered questions, and intrigue to demand a follow-up. Now, season 2 promises to deliver more layered cases, deeper betrayals, and new faces entering the fold.
What’s Ahead After the Matlock Season 2 Release Date
The premier episode, titled The Before Times, wastes no time setting the tone. Matty Matlock, played by Kathy Bates, questions whether the man claiming to be her grandson Alfie’s father is telling the truth. At the same time, the firm delves into an arson case, while Olympia works behind the scenes to shield Julian from exposure in the Wellbrexa scandal. It’s a lot to balance in one episode, reminding viewers why this series is so addictive.
Matlock season 2 will dig further into the fallout of Julian’s crimes, test Olympia’s loyalties, and bring new challenges for Billy, who continues to navigate his role at the firm while trying to protect his personal life. Unlike some legal dramas that settle into predictable case-of-the-week formulas, Matlock blends serialized storytelling with fresh cases, making each week feel like a puzzle with high emotional stakes.
Cast and Characters Returning
The show wouldn’t be the same without Kathy Bates leading the charge as Matty, and she’s back in full force. Skye P. Marshall returns as Olympia, Jason Ritter continues as Julian, and Leah Lewis is back as Sarah. Aaron Harris will go on as Alfie, David Del Rio as Billy, Beau Bridges reprises his roles as Howard ‘Senior’ Markston, and Sam Anderson returns as Edwin.
There’s also a notable addition this season. Justina Machado joins the cast as Eva, the fiery fourth ex-wife of Senior, who now heads the office of the firm.
Machado’s introduction to set to shake things up professionally and personally. Fans can also expect Kathy Bates to step behind the camera to direct an episode or two, showcasing her creative range.
More Than a Scheduling Update
The Matlock season 2 release date marks the return of a show that surprised viewers in its first outing. While many initially wondered how a revival using the Matlock name would work, the series quickly established itself as its own entity. The story has a modern style and storylines that stand apart from the Andy Griffith classic.
The second season is poised to push boundaries further. Relationships will be tested, secrets will come to light, and the balance of power inside Jacobson Moore will continue to shift. By weaving together sharp legal cases with personal dilemmas, Matlock delivers a courtroom drama with ambition, morality, and trust.
Marking the Date and Looking Ahead
With the Matlock season 2 release date now set, fans can prepare for a fall season of tense depositions, surprise witnesses, and plenty of moral gray areas. The October 12 premiere is shaping up to be a night of answers to cliffhangers left over from last year, as well as a setup for the season ahead, packed with fresh conflicts.
If season 1 proved the show could stand on its own two feet, season 2 is where it proves it has staying power. Viewers tuning in this fall will be watching a legal drama that’s found its voice and is ready to argue its case for long-term success.