There is no new Matlock season 2 episode tonight, December 18, thanks to CBS's scheduling. The quasi-Matlock "reboot" was arguably the biggest hit of the 2024-2025 TV cycle. With such a talented cast attached to it, spearheaded by Kathy Bates, it quickly became a critical and commercial success for CBS. So understandably, it was one of the most-anticipated returns for this year.
The Matlock season 1 finale featured some major revelations about its overarching storylines, including the mystery about the Wellbrexa documents and the identity of Alfie's father. Both of these have been big narrative throughlines during its sophomore run. Beyond that, however, Matlock season 2 was faced with the challenge of writing out Billy, following David Del Rio's following. For context, the actor was booted due to alleged harassment complaints filed by his co-star and frequent scene partner, Leah Lewis.
Why There Is No New Matlock Tonight (December 18, 2025)
Unfortunately, fans will have to wait a while longer to learn about what's next for Madeline and the people at Jacobson Moore. Matlock season 2 has officially entered its mid-season hiatus, which means that it will be off the air throughout the holidays. This gap in programming is nothing new, as networks tend to block off several weeks of break for their scripted shows in light of the season while also helping them to sort out advanced content for the next year.
Matlock's usual 9 PM ET slot for CBS will be taken over by the two-part Ghosts season 5 fall finale. The network's comedies for the night, Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage season 2 (8-9 PM ET) and Ghosts season 5 (9-10 PM ET), are both airing super-sized offerings to cap off 2025. This works well with the scheduling, considering that Matlock season 2 already wrapped up the year last week. Meanwhile, Elsbeth season 3's own fall ending is still slotted for 10 PM ET.
When Will Matlock Season 2, Episode 16 Release & What To Expect
Because CBS' programming ended later compared to ABC and NBC, fans are looking at a longer wait for the network's shows to return, including Matlock. Per the official announcement, Bates' critically-acclaimed legal show isn't due for a new episode until February 26, which is two months from now.
In addition to that, since Matlock season 2, episode 9 is still so far ahead, CBS has yet to reveal any specific information about it, such as title and synopsis. That said, considering where the show left off, expect that the show will begin addressing the few lingering cliffhangers that it has. While Billy's already out, Sarah's own fate at Jacobson Moore is also hanging in the balance after what happened between her and Senior. At the very least, Olympia and Madeline are seemingly already back on good terms.
