The Matlock cast graced television screens from 1986 to 1995. This iconic courtroom drama captured audiences in large part because of its stellar ensemble cast, including its star —Andy Griffith. Griffith, who played the role of Benjamin Matlock, a defense attorney based in Atlanta, Georgia, used his folksy demeanor, sharp mind, and unorthodox courtroom tactics for every case he tried.
The plot line each week was warm and familiar, like a cozy blanket. Matlock was hired to defend a client who was accused of murder. He would then investigate the case, uncover new evidence, and, through careful sleuthing, find the real culprit. The show combined elements of legal drama, mystery, and courtroom procedures. And, of course, justice always prevailed in the end.
Audiences loved Matlock’s brilliant and charismatic way of outsmarting the prosecution by using unconventional methods, to ultimately secure acquittals for his clients. It was a guessing game until the final scene.
Surprising Matlock Facts
Dick Van Dyke guest-starred as a sinister trial judge in the pilot episode of Matlock. Of course, there were other famous guest appearances over the years, including Betty White, Jason Bateman, Malcolm Jamal-Warner, and even Alf from the Alien puppet sitcom. Don Knotts, from the Andy Griffith Show, had a recurring role for 12 episodes.
While Matlock was a hit when it came out, after six seasons, it was losing steam. The new NBC entertainment president, Warren Littlefield, was looking to back away from series that skewed to older audiences.
In addition to In the Heat of the Night, he canned Matlock. Griffith and producers felt there was still something to the series and managed to convince executives at ABC, telling them the show could move filming to North Carolina and save money on production. It worked. The show ran three more seasons before going off the air for good in 1995.
The Matlock cast
Andy Griffith as Benjamin Matlock
The cornerstone of Matlock was star Andy Griffith who brought Benjamin Matlock to life with his Southern charm and legal expertise. Griffith was a household name before becoming part of the Matlock cast, thanks to his role in The Andy Griffith Show.
Not many people realize that Griffith was an accomplished musician and recorded several albums of gospel and country music. After seeing the trombonist Jack Teagarden in the 1941 film Birth of the Blues, he bought a trombone from Sears, Roebuck & Compan and took lessons from a local pastor.
