Kathy Bates' New Show Proves It Has a Future Beyond Its Twist

THE Matlock The mid-season finale, 'No, No Monsters,' delivers a solid introduction to Kathy Bates' new show, proving that it has a future beyond its revolutionary twist. In the age of reboots and revivals, bringing back such an iconic series has understandably garnered various reactions. There was excitement about the premise of the show, especially considering who was involved. That said, some skeptics didn't think it was necessary to reboot Andy Griffith's show. Ultimately, MatlockThe well-executed twist showed that it is nothing like an ordinary series full of nostalgia.

In Matlock episode 8, which also serves as the final episode of 2024, Bates' Madeline Matlock moves on after her first outing with Julian working in the pharmaceutical industry with Wellbrexa. The case included several hiccups, including what could have been a career-ending blunder of the show's titular character. With Madeline's place at Jacobson Moore more stable than ever, Matlock episode 7 ended with a big development for her, while also creating a complicated situation for Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) and Julian (Jason Ritter) after their brief reconciliation. Both stories are in full action in “No, No Monsters.”

Matlock Episode 8 Highlights the Show's Best – Madeline and Olympia

Olympia reunites with Madeline after working with Julian

Matlock episode 8 shifts the focus back to Olympia and Madeline while working on a case involving a nanny from the school where the former's children attend. Because of her conflict with Julian, in light of his admission of having an affair, she relies on her partner to handle the case. This results in some of the most entertaining scenes in the series so far, with Madeline and Olympia collaborating to win the case.

It is certain that Matlock Episode 8 isn't as emotionally intense as its predecessor, which was based on the tragedy of Ellie's death while Madeline was working at Wellbrexa for the first time. But seeing her and Olympia develop a dynamic beyond their co-workers pays off. Pair Bates with anyone on Matlock casting is easy because she has good chemistry with everyone. That being said, she clearly has a special bond with Marshall, who is also brilliant in his role. Although the show has an effective ensemble, Matlock's best pairing is Madeline and Olympia.

MatlockThe mid-season finale is balanced with Madeline and Olympia's personal problems. After missing Alfie's mock trial and yet another argument with Edwin about how she is balancing her time between family and work along with her plan for revenge, Madeline feels like she is being pulled in all directions. Meanwhile, Olympia is still reeling from Julian's infidelity. Their respective problems only bring the pair together. This makes the inevitable revelation of Madeline's secret revenge plan more interesting, as Olympia now trusts her completely, without knowing her real motivations.

Matlock's midseason finale shows its potential beyond its original twist

Matlock may continue even after Madeline achieves her goal

Matlock's revolutionary twist on Madeline's true identity and intentions effectively sets it apart from all other reboots and revivals. They prove that modern shows have other creative options when it comes to leveraging the popularity and stories of legacy series. It also posed a huge challenge for CBS, as it couldn't sustain the premise beyond a few seasons without running the risk of it becoming repetitive. That being said, seeing Madeline and Olympia work on cases as a normal process shows that Matlock can survive by resolving its original plot.

As Matlock Firmly establishing the partnership between Madeline and Olympia, the show has already planted seeds for stories following the revenge plot's inevitable conclusion. The duo's partnership is strong enough to take the series forward, especially if they continue to develop their dynamic further in the second half of the season. True, there will be dramatic consequences if Madeline eventually achieves her goal, but once the dust settles, she and Olympia can start over, perhaps with their own company.

Matlock Season 1 will return from its hiatus on January 30, 2025.