Temporada
Episodio
Servidor del reproductor
Matlock

Matlock

19867
DramaCrimen
Estreno
03 mar 1986
País
Estados Unidos
Producciones
Viacom ProductionsDean Hargrove ProductionsFred Silverman CompanyThe Matlock Company
Matlock es un drama legal televisivo estadounidense, protagonizado por Andy Griffith en el papel principal de abogado defensor criminal Ben Matlock. El programa, producido por The Fred Silverman Company, Dean Hargrove Productions, Viacom Productions y Paramount Television, se emitió originalmente desde el 23 de septiembre de 1986 hasta el 8 de mayo de 1992 en NBC; y desde el 5 de noviembre de 1992 hasta el 7 de mayo de 1995 en ABC. El formato del programa es similar al de Perry Mason de CBS, con Matlock identificando a los perpetradores y luego enfrentándolos en escenas dramáticas de la corte. Una diferencia, sin embargo, es que mientras Mason normalmente exculpaba a sus clientes en una audiencia preprocesal, Matlock normalmente lograba una absolución en juicio, por parte del jurado.

About

Quick guide

American legal drama starring Andy Griffith as defense attorney Ben Matlock.

Matlock follows the career of Ben Matlock, a seasoned criminal defense attorney who takes on high‑profile cases that often involve complex investigations. Set in a contemporary legal environment, the series showcases Matlock’s blend of courtroom skill and investigative tenacity. Each episode centers on a new client, with Matlock employing thorough research and sharp cross‑examination to uncover the truth. The show also explores Matlock’s personal life, featuring his daughter Charlene and close associates, adding depth to the legal narrative. Over nine seasons, Matlock maintained a balance between procedural drama and character development, earning a dedicated fanbase and influencing subsequent legal shows.

What to know

  • 9 seasons, 181 episodes.
  • Episodes run about 45 minutes (60 with commercials).
  • Centered on a single case per episode.
  • Ben Matlock is known for his courtroom presence and investigative methods.
  • Blends procedural drama with personal relationships.
  • Filmed largely in Wilmington, NC.
  • Includes recurring legal and family characters.

Watch if

Watch if you enjoy courtroom drama with a seasoned lead, appreciate a mix of investigation and legal strategy, and like shows that balance case‑of‑the‑week storytelling with character relationships.

Skip if

Skip if you prefer high‑stakes action, modern visual effects, or a series that leans heavily into thriller or horror elements; Matlock is a classic, dialogue‑driven drama without graphic violence.

crime violencedialogue heavyfamily friendlymature themesinvestigation heavylanguage somesuspenseful
Premise Overview
The series follows seasoned defense attorney Ben Matlock as he tackles a range of criminal cases, employing sharp investigative skills and courtroom acumen to protect clients. Each episode centers on uncovering the real perpetrator before the trial reaches its climax.
Character Dynamics
Matlock balances a demanding career with a close‑knit family. His daughter Charlene, former prosecutor turned defense partner, often clashes with his old‑school methods. Supporting characters include Adam, his loyal secretary, and recurring prosecutors who test his resolve.
Episode Structure
Episodes open with a crime scene or client brief, followed by Matlock's thorough investigation. The tension escalates through witness interviews and evidence gathering, culminating in a courtroom showdown where the real culprit is confronted and justice pursued.
Legal Tactics
Matlock relies on meticulous research, clever cross‑examination, and persuasive storytelling. He frequently turns the tables on prosecutors, exposing inconsistencies and guiding jurors toward truth while upholding ethical standards.
Production Background
Created by Dean Hargrove, the show combined elements of classic legal dramas with a contemporary feel. Filmed primarily in Wilmington, North Carolina, it featured a rotating roster of directors and writers who kept the series fresh over nine seasons.
Reception & Legacy
With an IMDb rating of 7.1 and a loyal fanbase, Matlock earned multiple award nominations and won five honors. Its blend of courtroom drama and character depth influenced later legal shows.
Where to Watch
The series is available on streaming platforms like Peacock and Hulu, with complete season collections for purchase on DVD or digital download. Check availability in your region before subscribing.

FAQ

47 Q&A
What does Matlock usually wear?
Ben Matlock often wore a rumpled suit, usually gray or tan, and a tie. He also sometimes wore a fedora.
What college did Matlock go to?
Information about which college Matlock attended is not readily available in common summaries of the show.
What is Matlock's job?
Matlock's job is a lawyer, specifically a defense attorney.
How many seasons of Matlock are there?
Matlock had nine seasons.
Who is Matlock's wife?
Matlock was a widower. His wife, who was not a main character, passed away before the series began.
Does Matlock have any family?
Yes, Matlock had a daughter, Charlene, who was also a lawyer. He was also a widower.
What does Matlock do?
Matlock is a lawyer who investigates crimes to find the real killer and prove his client's innocence.
Does Matlock have a signature look?
Yes, Matlock often wore a rumpled suit, a tie, and sometimes a fedora, which became his signature look.
What is Matlock's age?
Matlock's exact age is not consistently stated, but he was portrayed as a seasoned, older lawyer, likely in his 50s or 60s during the show's run.
What is the name of the actor who plays Matlock?
The main actor who played Ben Matlock was Andy Griffith.
Who is Matlock's daughter?
Matlock's daughter's name was Charlene Matlock.
What kind of cases does Matlock take?
Matlock typically took murder cases where he believed his client was innocent.
Who is Matlock's private investigator?
Tyler Hudson was Matlock's private investigator for much of the series.
Who are Matlock's typical clients?
Matlock's typical clients were people accused of murder who maintained their innocence.
What year did Matlock first air?
Matlock first aired in 1986.
Who is the main actor in Matlock?
The main actor in Matlock was Andy Griffith.
What is Matlock's full name?
Matlock's full name was Ben Matlock.
What network aired Matlock?
Matlock originally aired on NBC and later moved to ABC.
What is Matlock's famous catchphrase?
While Matlock didn't have one single, universally famous catchphrase, he was known for his insightful and often dramatic courtroom pronouncements.
What is Matlock's background?
Ben Matlock was a highly successful and respected defense attorney known for his sharp legal mind and his ability to uncover the truth.
What city is Matlock set in?
Matlock was primarily set in Atlanta, Georgia, though he also took cases in other cities.
Who is Matlock?
Matlock is the main character of the television series of the same name, a brilliant and folksy defense attorney.
What is Matlock's real name?
Matlock's real name was Ben Matlock.
Where was Matlock filmed?
Matlock was filmed primarily in Los Angeles, California.
Who are the other main characters in Matlock?
Other main characters included his investigators Tyler Hudson and Billy Lewis, his daughter Charlene Matlock, and various assistants and legal associates over the years.
Did Matlock ever go to jail?
Yes, Ben Matlock went to jail for a crime he did not commit. However, he was later released.
What is the legacy of Matlock?
Matlock's legacy is that of a clever and persistent defense attorney who fought for justice and often exposed the real killer.
What happens to Matlock at the end of the series?
At the end of the series, Matlock retires from his law practice and moves to the countryside with his wife.
What was the budget for Matlock?
Information about the specific budget for Matlock is not readily available.
What awards did Matlock win?
Matlock won several awards, including multiple Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe Award for Andy Griffith.
What is the overall tone of Matlock?
The overall tone of Matlock is a mix of legal drama and mystery, with a touch of warmth and humor.
What is Matlock's specialty?
Matlock's specialty is defending clients accused of murder, and he is known for finding the real killer.
What are some memorable Matlock episodes?
Memorable episodes often involve Matlock uncovering surprising twists and revealing the true culprit in complex murder cases.
What was the inspiration for the character Matlock?
The character of Matlock was inspired by fictional defense attorneys and the real-life legal system, aiming to create a relatable and intelligent lawyer.
What is the ending of Matlock?
The series finale shows Matlock retiring from his law career and moving on to a new chapter in his life.
Does Matlock win every case?
While Matlock is very successful, he does not win every case. However, he always seeks the truth and justice for his clients.
How long did it take to film an episode of Matlock?
The filming time for an episode of Matlock, like most television shows of its era, would typically take several days to a week.
What are the common themes in Matlock?
Common themes include justice, truth, the flaws in the legal system, and the importance of looking beyond appearances.
How does Matlock solve cases?
Matlock solves cases by thoroughly investigating, interviewing witnesses, finding inconsistencies, and often confronting the real killer with evidence.
What inspired the show Matlock?
The show was inspired by classic courtroom dramas and the desire to create a character who was both a brilliant lawyer and a compassionate human being.
What is the legal system like in Matlock?
The legal system in Matlock often appears dramatic, with a focus on uncovering hidden truths and presenting compelling arguments to sway juries and judges.
What is Matlock's method?
Matlock's method involves meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of human nature, and a talent for exposing lies to reveal the truth.
What is the theme song of Matlock?
The theme song for Matlock is an instrumental piece composed by John E. Graham and Bruce Babcock, often referred to simply as 'Matlock Theme'.
Who created the TV show Matlock?
The TV show Matlock was created by Dean Hargrove.
What makes Matlock different from other lawyers?
Matlock is different because he often takes cases for clients who can't afford him and makes it his mission to find the actual perpetrator, not just defend his client.
What are some famous Matlock cases?
Famous cases often involve high-profile individuals, intricate plots, and dramatic courtroom reveals where Matlock exposes the true murderer.
Is Matlock a comedy or a drama?
Matlock is primarily a legal drama with elements of mystery and suspense.

Actores

Andy Griffith
Andy Griffith
Ben Matlock
Daniel Roebuck
Daniel Roebuck
Cliff Lewis
Carol Huston
Carol Huston
Jerri Stone