Kathy Bates Takes on ‘Matlock’ Revival Tackling Ageism and Opioid Crisis

Renowned actress Kathy Bates is stepping into a new role in the CBS legal drama “Matlock,” at a time she had contemplated semi-retirement. Bates, aged 76, expressed her surprise at receiving this opportunity, describing it as unexpected. “I got this script, and I thought, ‘Oh wow. I’ve got to do it,'” Bates revealed during an interview with “CBS Mornings.”

The series is inspired by the original hit TV show “Matlock,” but Bates initially hesitated to accept the role. In the series, she portrays Madeline “Matty” Matlock, an attorney re-entering the workforce and using her age and wit to secure a position at a prestigious law firm. Bates commented on the societal challenges faced by women her age, stating, “There are so many women who really do feel invisible, and these years are difficult to put that despair at bay to get through every day.”

In “Matlock,” Bates’s character follows in the footsteps of the titular role, which was a childhood comfort show for her character’s late daughter. The daughter’s struggle with opioid addiction is a significant aspect of the plot, with the series weaving past and present themes together. The show thus takes a meta approach by maintaining connections to its roots while presenting modern-day social justice narratives.

The pilot episode, penned by Jennie Snyder Urman, known for “Jane the Virgin,” introduces viewers to a twist—a central premise of the story. As Bates explained, her character, under the guise of “Matlock,” infiltrates a law firm she suspects of covering up the harmful effects of opioids manufactured by their pharmaceutical client.

Within the narrative, Bates’s portrayal tackles ageism. Her character, Matty, utilizes the perception of older women to her advantage, stating, “People assume I’m a harmless old lady, and that’s how I’m gonna trick them.” This setup allows for revelations around workplace deception and personal loss to unfold.

“Matlock” features a supporting cast including David Del Rio as Billy and Leah Lewis as Sarah, who play Matty’s younger colleagues, adding an intergenerational dynamic to the show. Skye P. Marshall plays Olympia, Matty’s boss, while Beau Bridges and Jason Ritter portray family members involved with the firm.

As Matlock navigates her professional life, she collaborates with family members including her husband Edwin, played by Sam Anderson, and her grandson Alfie, portrayed by Aaron D. Harris. The family dynamics, while less defined, add a personal layer to Matty’s professional pursuits.

“Matlock” premieres its timeslot on CBS and Paramount+ on October 17, airing weekly episodes every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET. The series is expected to explore the balance between societal roles, personal loss, and broader legal ethics.