‘Matlock’ Officially Won’t Return in 2026

Matlock will not return for its third season until 2027, after being left off CBS’s autumn schedule. Creator Jennie Snyder Urman requested a midseason premiere so the writing team has time to develop a new mystery following the resolution of the Wellbrexa storyline.

Urman acknowledged that the delay may disappoint viewers but said she wants the next plot to be carefully developed and maintain the show’s quality. Season 3 is already in production, and its new mystery will build on the previous story without continuing it directly, with possible links to insurance and healthcare. The series stars Kathy Bates and earned a 93% Rotten Tomatoes score.