CBS Debuts Matlock with 7.73 Million Viewers on Sunday

On September 22, 2024, CBS aired a preview of the new series featuring Kathy Bates in the lead role, attracting 7.73 million viewers during the Sunday 8 pm ET time slot. This viewership marks CBS's strongest series premiere in over five years, indicating a significant interest in the reboot of the classic show. The series presents a gender-flipped narrative, with Bates portraying Madeline Matlock, a character who initially appears to be a widowed, inexperienced ex-lawyer. As the pilot unfolds, viewers discover that Madeline is actually Madeline Kingston, a wealthy woman whose husband is alive. She takes a job at a law firm, motivated by a personal quest to uncover the truth behind her daughter's tragic death from an opioid overdose. The storyline suggests that key figures at the law firm may have concealed critical documents related to her daughter's case, adding layers of intrigue and drama. The pilot episode is currently available for streaming on Paramount+, with additional broadcasts scheduled on CBS for October 8 and October 10 at 9 pm ET. This strategic scheduling aims to maintain viewer engagement and capitalize on the initial interest generated by the premiere. Overall, the successful debut of this reboot not only highlights Kathy Bates's star power but also reflects a broader trend in television where classic shows are being reimagined for contemporary audiences, potentially paving the way for future adaptations.