The original Matlock is a cherished television show that aired for nine seasons from 1986 to 1995. Andy Griffith starred as Ben Matlock, a lawyer who always wins his cases.
Although he might seem a bit grumpy, he always uncovers the real criminal during impressive courtroom scenes.
When news broke in January 2023 that a remake was in the works, some people felt uncertain. Anytime a beloved show gets a remake, there is a chance it might not succeed.
However, when the legendary Kathy Bates agreed to play a gender-flipped Matlock and serve as the executive producer for the new CBS series, many concerns faded away.
Early reviews praised Bates for her strong performance as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a 75-year-old woman returning to work at the Jacobson Moore law firm. The first episode premiered recently, making it clear that this version of Matlock stands strong on its own.
Although there are clever references to the Griffith-led show, like characters discussing the original television series, this Matlock is completely different.
A big twist at the end of the first episode indicates that the show will be very different from what viewers expected.
‘Matlock’ Episode 1 Reveals Matty’s Secrets
Viewers meet Matty as a sweet, grandmotherly character in the beginning scenes. It is clear she is still very smart and a bit manipulative, as she sneaks past security at the law firm where she wants a job.
She manages to negotiate a two-week trial employment at Jacobson Moore after impressing the partners with her skills.
Throughout the episode, Matty shares that she has not practiced law in more than 30 years. After her husband passed away, leaving her with a huge gambling debt, she feels the need to earn money again.
She also tells different people about her life, such as raising her 12-year-old grandson, who does not like her, and her daughter, who died after a long struggle with drug addiction.
Matty uses her charm and friendly personality to gain trust, whether with her new coworkers at the firm or the people involved in her case.
Then, as the episode comes to an end, viewers learn that Matty has been dishonest about almost everything. She gets into a chauffeured car to drive home to a big mansion, showing she is not broke. Before entering her house, she puts on a huge diamond ring.
Inside, she is welcomed by her husband, who is alive, and her lovely grandson, who does not actually hate her.
They excitedly discuss how her first case went, and they reveal that her real name is Madeline Kingston. They chose the name Matlock because it was her daughter’s favorite show.
Madeline last practiced law only 10 years ago. The biggest surprise is that Madeline has a completely different reason for working at the law firm than she said: She thinks one of the three partners at Jacobson Moore is responsible for her daughter’s death.
Olympia (Skye P. Marshall), Julian (Jason Ritter), or Senior (Beau Bridges) hid evidence during an opioid case, and if that evidence had been used, many deaths could have been avoided, including her daughter’s.
Still from Matlock (Credit: Paramount+)
Matty is not working at the firm to earn money; her real goal is to find out who is guilty and send them to prison. While Matty did not lie about her daughter’s addiction, that is the one truth she shares because it drives her life.
A New Direction for ‘Matlock’
Matty’s different motivation for returning to work as a lawyer changes what Matlock will be about in future episodes.
There will still be weekly cases for Matty to solve, but there will also be an ongoing story about her quest to figure out which partner is her target and enemy.
This main plot helps the series rise above a typical procedural. Most legal dramas focus only on different cases and courtroom scenes, without an underlying mystery.
This twist also allows the audience to share in Matty’s secret, while none of the other characters know, creating a unique bond between the viewer and Madeline.
The end of the first episode changes how the audience views Matty as a person. She appears as a forgetful, older woman who seems helpless, but in reality, Madeline is clever, calculating, and capable of hiding her true self.
Instead of being an ordinary hero, she becomes a fascinating protagonist who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals and find justice for her daughter’s death.
Matty is someone used to being underestimated, and she takes advantage of how people see older adults.
Bates skillfully shows this shift from kind grandmother to determined lawyer, making Madeline Matlock, also known as Kingston, one of the best characters on network television today.
The twist about who Madeline is may change things for the series, but it also creates an exciting setup for Matlock’s first season.
One thing the new show shares with the original series is that Madeline uses her name to create goodwill for her false persona.
Still from Matlock (Credit: Paramount+)
It makes sense that her husband and grandson would pick that name. Griffith’s Matlock is honest and always seeks the truth. Who would not trust someone named after such a hero?
Even if Matty may not be as truthful and naive as she seems, her true mission will surely make for an exciting journey.
The first episode of Matlock is available to stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. New episodes will start airing on CBS on Thursdays, beginning on October 17.
“Survivor” has been a groundbreaking show on CBS for the last 24 years, attracting audiences with its blend of adventure, strategy, and human drama.
Created by Charlie Parsons, the show thrusts contestants, known as “castaways,” onto a deserted beach in Fiji, where they must survive 26 days of harsh conditions while competing in physical and mental challenges.
The ultimate goal? To outlast the rest and be crowned the sole survivor at the final tribal council, winning a $1 million prize.
As “Survivor” gears up for its 47th season, fans are buzzing with excitement about new challenges and unexpected twists, building on the “New Era” of Survivor that started in Season 41. This upcoming season promises to deliver more surprises, making it a must-watch.
Over its many seasons, “Survivor” has evolved, but its appeal remains as strong as ever. With Jeff Probst continuing as the charismatic host, the show has produced unforgettable moments and legendary contestants.
Many fan-favourites have gone on to appear in other reality shows, and some have become iconic within the “Survivor” fandom. For some players, being on the show is a lifelong dream come true.
The upcoming cast of Season 47 is no exception, featuring contestants from all walks of life, including podcasters, lawyers, athletes, and video game enthusiasts.
As these new castaways prepare to battle it out, we take a closer look at each competitor, learning about their backgrounds and what they hope to achieve on the island.
Teeny Chirichillo: A Writer with Big Dreams
Teeny Chirichillo, a freelance writer from Manahawkin, New Jersey, has been dreaming about being on “Survivor” since she was in the fifth grade. Now, her childhood dream is becoming a reality.
Teeny’s diverse hobbies include writing, thrifting, and reading, but one of her most notable achievements is completing an 18-mile unicycle race.
She says that competing on “Survivor” feels like a calling, and she hopes to form strong bonds with her fellow castaways.
Her ability to connect with others could be a significant advantage in forming alliances and showing the social aspect of the game. Teeny is driven and ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
Rome Cooney: The Gamer Ready for a New Challenge
Rome Cooney, an e-sports commentator from Oregon, views “Survivor” as the ultimate challenge for a gamer like him. Known for his passion for video games, Rome is ready to apply his competitive nature and strategic thinking to the game.
Cast of Survivor Season 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
One of Rome’s biggest pet peeves is people stealing food off his plate, and he’s not a fan of vegetables.
Though these quirks may add some humor to his time on the island, Rome’s focus will be on performing well in immunity challenges. He says he’ll be satisfied if his fellow contestants consider him a threat, and he’s prepared to give it his all.
Anika Dhar: A Survivor of Wildfires
Anika Dhar is a marketing manager from Los Angeles who feels that her life experiences have prepared her for “Survivor.”
After losing her home and belongings to California wildfires, Anika knows how to get by with very little. This resilience is something she hopes to bring to the game.
She compares her blunt attitude to that of former contestant Sandra and says she possesses the persuasive powers of Parvati.
These traits, combined with her ability to adapt to difficult situations, could make Anika a force to be reckoned with on the island.
Terran “TK” Foster: Overcoming Life’s Challenges
Terran “TK” Foster, an athlete marketing manager, feels ready for “Survivor” after battling kidney disease and learning to be comfortable with life’s discomforts. TK’s favorite player is Tony, and he loves watching football in his downtime.
His biggest inspiration is his mom, and he’s looking forward to taking on the physical and emotional challenges the game has to offer. TK’s personal experiences have taught him how to endure, and he hopes that resilience will carry him far in the competition.
Tiyana Hallums: A Flight Attendant with a Competitive Edge
Tiyana Hallums hails from Hawaii and works as a flight attendant. A former Division I athlete, Tiyana believes her competitive background has prepared her for “Survivor.” She hopes to form an alliance with someone who communicates well and is trustworthy.
Like many contestants, Tiyana is a fan of Parvati, a player known for her charm and strategic gameplay. Tiyana hopes to use her personality and social skills to form strong relationships and position herself for success.
Rachel LaMont: A Graphic Designer with a Keen Eye for Strategy
Rachel LaMont, a graphic designer, discovered “Survivor” in 2017 after her husband happened to turn it on the TV.
She quickly became a fan of the show and decided to put her strategic mind to the test. Rachel loves playing golf and considers herself good at reading people, a skill that could serve her well in the game.
Cast of Survivor Season 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Born in Thailand, Rachel is hoping to find an alliance partner who understands her way of thinking, so they can work together to craft a winning strategy.
Jon Lovett: A Political Podcaster with Big Ambitions
Jon Lovett, originally from New York and now based in Los Angeles, is a political podcaster and former speechwriter for President Obama.
He’s also a fan of video games and enjoys crossword puzzles. Jon identifies with past players like Penner, Aubrey, and Cochran, all known for their sharp minds and strategic play.
Jon’s life in the public eye made him an instant standout, but unfortunately, he was the first contestant to be eliminated from Season 47. Despite this, his brief time on the show left an impression on fans.
Genevieve Mushaluk: A Lawyer with a Love for the Game
Genevieve Mushaluk is a corporate lawyer who has applied to be on “Survivor” for over five years. She’s proud to have finally made it and is excited to compete. Genevieve began watching the show as a child, and her passion for the game has never wavered.
She is also a video game lover and is looking for an alliance partner who values predictability. Genevieve believes her experience as a lawyer will help her show the complex social dynamics of the game and reach the end.
Gabe Ortis: A Radio Show Host Ready to Compete
Gabe Ortis is a radio show host who is eager to compete in the New Era of “Survivor.” He is inspired by his older brother and found it difficult to leave his hosting duties behind to join the show, but he couldn’t resist the opportunity to play.
Gabe hopes to form strong alliances and play the game his way, without being compared to past players. His determination to carve his path could make him a standout competitor.
Kyle Ostwald: A Family Man with a Survivor Spirit
Kyle Ostwald, a construction worker from Michigan, feels prepared for “Survivor” after living in a van for six years. His unique life experience has given him the ability to adapt to difficult circumstances, which will come in handy on the island.
Cast of Survivor Season 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Kyle wants to inspire his children through his time on the show, and he’s looking for an alliance partner who values honesty. He admires Jesse, a contestant from Season 43, who played for his family, and Kyle hopes to do the same.
Kishan Patel: The ER Doctor Ready to Switch Gears
Kishan Patel is an emergency room doctor from San Francisco. He’s proud of becoming a doctor, especially as a first-generation college student. Kishan loves his daily Wordle game and travelling.
He believes his ability to switch emotional gears quickly, a skill honed in the fast-paced environment of the ER, will help him in the unpredictable world of “Survivor.”
Sam Phalen: A Sports Reporter Living His Dream
Sam Phalen, a sports reporter, has dreamed of being on “Survivor” since childhood. He believes his career has prepared him for the game’s strategic challenges.
Sam is looking for a predictable and strategic alliance partner and is a fan of Michele Fitzgerald, a former contestant known for her grit and determination.
Andy Rueda: An AI Researcher with a Strategic Mind
Andy Rueda is an AI research assistant who admires Yul, a former “Survivor” player known for his calm and thoughtful gameplay.
While Andy may come off as carefree, he is always thinking and analyzing his next move. He hopes to follow the strategy of Omar, a standout player from a previous season, by relying on his instincts and ability to outthink the competition.
Sue Smey: A Flight School Owner Chasing a Lifelong Dream
Sue Smey owns a flight school and has dreamed of being on “Survivor” since the very first episode. She draws inspiration from her uncle, who has always supported her.
Cast of Survivor Season 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Sue hopes to play the game like Tony and Cirie, two legendary players known for their strategic brilliance and adaptability. She’s ready to be pushed to her limits and make her mark on “Survivor” history.
Caroline Vidmar: A Strategy Consultant Who Loves the Game
Caroline Vidmar is a strategy consultant from Illinois who has grown to appreciate “Survivor” more as she got older and realized how tough the game is.
Caroline is looking for an alliance partner who thinks they can beat her at the final tribal council, but she plans to prove them wrong. Her love for the strategic side of the game could make her a serious contender.
Aysha Welch: A Survivor of Hurricane Harvey
Aysha Welch is an IT consultant who feels prepared for “Survivor” after surviving Hurricane Harvey. She enjoys escape rooms and is looking for an alliance partner who displays blind loyalty. Aysha is competitive and believes her fellow contestants may underestimate her, a mistake they could regret.
Sierra Wright: A Nurse Ready to Adapt
Sierra Wright, a nurse and former Irish step dancer, draws inspiration from her parents, who taught her to work hard and adapt quickly.
She plans to bring this adaptability to the game and hopes to enjoy her time on the island while working hard to win. Sierra wants to form relationships with castaways who share her values and drive to succeed.
Solomon “Sol” Yi: A Medical Device Salesman Inspired by Gabler
Solomon “Sol” Yi works in medical device sales and grew up watching his parents work tirelessly. He’s excited to compete in “Survivor” and admires Gabler, a contestant known for playing his own game while maintaining strong relationships. Sol hopes to follow a similar path, balancing social bonds with strategic decisions.
Conclusion: A Diverse and Exciting Cast
As “Survivor” Season 47 approaches, this diverse group of contestants is preparing to compete in one of the most challenging and unpredictable games on television.
Each castaway brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, ensuring that the season will be filled with surprises, drama, and intense competition.
Cast of Survivor Season 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Whether they are seasoned athletes, brilliant strategists, or lifelong fans of the show, these contestants are all driven by the same goal: to outwit, outplay, and outlast their competitors to become the sole survivor.
Fans of the show won’t want to miss a moment of the action when “Survivor” Season 47 premieres this fall on Paramount+.
