Kathy Bates Explains Matlock Episode 1’s Big Twist About Matty

by

Kathy Bates Explains Matlock Episode 1’s Big Twist About Matty

As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of detective games, I must admit that the reboot of Matlock with Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock or Matty has piqued my interest. The twist at the end of the series premiere, revealing her true identity and intentions, adds a layer of complexity to the character that is intriguing.

In the debut episode of the 2024 remake of the iconic series “Matlock,” starring Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock or Matty, it’s revealed (beware of spoilers) that she isn’t the destitute and impoverished lawyer she portrays. Instead, she is actually Madeline Kingston, a wealthy woman whose husband is still alive. The twist also shows that she didn’t just happen to stumble upon the Jacobson Moore law firm seeking employment. In fact, her intention is to expose the firm for withholding documents that led to the death of her daughter due to an overdose caused by opioids. Kathy Bates and showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman have both discussed this unexpected ending in recent interviews.

Kathy Bates on why Matty’s big twist in the Matlock Episode 1 is important

In a chat with Entertainment Weekly, Bates discussed her reasons for taking on the lead role in the CBS show, as the Academy Award winner shared that it would be her final acting assignment.

Bates emphasized that understanding the impact of opioids on people, regardless of their socioeconomic status, is crucial. She went on to say that this struggle against opioid abuse is a prolonged fight, and unfortunately, many individuals find themselves caught up in it through no fault of their own.

As Bates suggests, stepping back into the work environment filled with individuals as young as her own daughter has added layers of complexity to her character. She explained, “Each day, she enters the workplace to carry on her mission, to avoid being found out, but then uncovers aspects she hadn’t anticipated. Her relationships deepen, she feels a connection with certain people, and she can’t help but see her daughter in these young faces.” The Summer Camp actress further clarified this.

Matlock showrunner reveals how Matty’s Twist came to be

Jennie Snyder Urman shared in an interview with Deadline that the twist about the character using the name Matlock was included in the initial concept. She explained, “When considering how I would reimagine this title, I wondered, what could set it apart? Naturally, I planned to have a female lead, but I didn’t want a simple gender swap without any excitement. So, I began to ponder if she might be going by the name Matlock. I set myself a kind of challenge.

In her own words, Urman emphasized that Matty should exhibit unwavering determination throughout the series, and the plot should explore heavy themes such as grief, loss, and a lawyer’s duty to public health rather than individual clients. She further questioned why a woman like Matty would return to the law firm, hinting at a compelling reason, and then explained how she presented the story from start to finish.

Apart from Bates, the reboot’s cast also features Jason Ritter, Skye P. Marshall, and Aaron Harris.

Read More

2024-09-23 12:40