You probably didn’t see that coming. The Matlock reboot on CBS has been a runaway freight train of success, but behind the scenes, things got messy fast. If you’ve been watching the 2024-2025 season, you know Kathy Bates is killing it as Madeline "Matty" Matlock. But lately, the conversation hasn't been about her brilliant legal stings. It’s about the revolving door at Jacobson Moore.
Everything changed in late 2025.
We’re talking about a major firing, a few high-profile additions, and the looming shadow of retirement for the show's biggest star. Honestly, it’s a lot to keep track of if you just want to sit down and watch a mystery.
The David Del Rio Exit: What Really Happened
The biggest headline regarding new Matlock cast changes is the sudden departure of David Del Rio, who played the eager associate Billy Martinez. This wasn't a creative "he moved to another law firm" kind of deal. Del Rio was fired.
The news broke in October 2025 following an internal investigation into alleged sexual assault. The reports are heavy—allegations involving his co-star Leah Lewis (who plays Sarah Franklin). CBS didn't mess around. They escorted him off the set the same day the report was filed.
Because the show films so far in advance, Del Rio still appeared in the first seven episodes of Season 2. His final appearance aired on December 4, 2025. If you felt like the midseason finale on December 11 felt a bit "clunky" regarding his absence, now you know why. The writers had to pivot hard. They explained Billy’s exit through a phone call: his partner, Claudia, suffered a miscarriage, and he stepped away from the firm to grieve.
It’s an abrupt, somber end for a character that was part of the central trio.
Fresh Faces: Enter the Efficiency Expert and "The Bro"
With a hole in the associate pool, creator Jennie Snyder Urman isn't just trying to find a "New Billy." She’s shifting the entire office dynamic.
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Starting February 26, 2026, we’re getting two brand-new series regulars. First up is Sarah Wright Olsen. You might recognize her from Parks and Recreation or American Made. She’s playing Gwen, an efficiency expert. Since the firm is staring down a massive merger, Gwen is there to be the "bad guy," basically looking at everyone’s billable hours and judging their worth.
Then there’s the wildcard.
Henry Haber is joining as Hunter. The writers are literally calling him "The Bro." He’s a younger associate from the floater pool. Urman told Deadline they wanted to see how Olympia and Matty—two powerful, focused women—would react to a guy who wants to "shoot a basketball while ideas are flowing."
It sounds like he’s going to be the human equivalent of a golden retriever with a law degree.
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The Real-Life Reunion: Edwin Hodge Joins the Fray
In a cool bit of "small world" casting, Edwin Hodge (formerly of FBI: Most Wanted) is checking into Season 2 as a guest star. He’s playing Langston. He’s described as the guy who is always late but so charming that no one actually cares.
The fun part? Hodge is married to Skye P. Marshall (Olympia) in real life. They’ve worked together before on Good Sam, and seeing that chemistry play out in the high-stakes world of Jacobson Moore is going to be a highlight of the 2026 episodes.
Who Else is Sticking Around?
Despite the shakeups, the core of the show remains intact.
- Kathy Bates as Madeline "Matty" Matlock.
- Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Lawrence.
- Jason Ritter as Julian Markston.
- Leah Lewis as Sarah Franklin (now navigating the firm without her original partner-in-crime).
- Beau Bridges as "Senior."
We also saw Melanie Lynskey pop up recently as Debra Palmer. She’s Jason Ritter’s real-life wife, and since her character is tied to the central opioid scandal mystery, don't be surprised if she keeps appearing.
Is Kathy Bates Actually Retiring?
This is the question that haunts every fan forum. Short answer: Yes, eventually.
When Bates took this role, she was very clear with the New York Times. She called Matlock her "final dance." She’s 77. She’s had an incredible 50-year career. While she’s committed to the show for now, she has stated that when Matlock ends, she’s hanging up the acting shoes for good.
This adds a layer of "must-watch" energy to every episode. We aren't just watching a reboot; we're watching the sunset of a legend’s career.
What This Means for You
The back half of Season 2 is going to feel different. The "three musketeers" vibe of Matty, Sarah, and Billy is gone. Instead, we’re getting a more corporate, high-pressure environment with Gwen the efficiency expert and the "bro" energy of Hunter.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Mark your calendar: The show returns from its midseason break on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 9/8c on CBS.
- Watch the transition: Pay attention to Episode 8 and 9. The way Sarah (Leah Lewis) handles Billy’s absence is going to be the emotional anchor for the rest of the season.
- Keep an eye on the merger: The new cast members (Gwen and Hunter) are directly tied to the firm’s merger storyline, which usually means some regular characters might find their jobs at risk.
The show is evolving. It’s leaner, a bit more cynical with the merger plot, and definitely more crowded. Whether the new chemistry can match the original Season 1 magic is the big gamble CBS is taking.