Matlock Season 2 Finale Unmasks Betrayal and New Alliances for Emmy-Nominated Reboot

The midseason finale of CBS’s Matlock delivered shocking twists. The episode, titled “Call It a Christmas Gift,” aired in December. It fundamentally altered the dynamics between the show’s central characters.

According to showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the goal was to honestly portray a fractured friendship. The lies and betrayals have set the stage for a dramatic second half of the season. The series returns with new episodes on February 26, 2026.

Julian’s Loyalty Test and Senior’s Fate Create Legal Turmoil

The finale’s climax revealed Julian’s complicity in his father’s cover-up. This forces Olympia into an impossible moral choice. She must decide between protecting her children’s father and aligning with Matty’s quest for justice.

Senior’s sudden stroke adds another layer of complexity. It pulls Julian back to his father’s side and muddies the clear target for Matty and Olympia. The health crisis creates a major obstacle for their investigation into the Wellbrexa pharmaceutical firm.

Character Arcs Evolve Amidst Personal and Professional Crossroads

The episode also advanced other key storylines. Matty’s growing connection with her grandson’s father, Joey, provided her with unexpected healing. It offered new memories of her late daughter, Ellie.

Meanwhile, associate Sarah faced consequences for spying for Senior. Her dismissal from Olympia’s team leaves her professionally unmoored. This sets her on a new path of self-discovery for the remainder of the season.

The Matlock midseason finale successfully reset the board with deeper character conflicts. The pursuit of justice continues, but personal loyalties have never been more frayed. Fans can expect the resolved Matlock storyline to deliver more answers and drama upon its return.

Info at your fingertips

What happened in the *Matlock* midseason finale?

Julian was revealed to be actively involved in his father’s cover-up. Senior suffered a stroke, and Olympia gave Matty crucial evidence, realigning their partnership against the firm.

How did Kathy Bates get involved with the *Matlock* reboot?

Kathy Bates stars as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a wealthy widow seeking justice under an assumed identity. Her performance earned an Emmy nomination, making her the oldest nominee ever in the lead drama actress category.

Will Billy return to *Matlock*?

No. The character Billy, played by David Del Rio, has written out of the show. The storyline explained his absence by having him take time off after a personal tragedy.

When does *Matlock* return with new episodes?

New episodes of *Matlock* Season 2 will resume on CBS on February 26, 2026. All current episodes are available for streaming on Paramount Plus.

What new characters are joining *Matlock*?

Showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman confirmed new characters will appear. Sarah Wright Olsen joins as lawyer Gwen, and a new associate named Hunter will bring a different dynamic to the firm.