Warning! Spoilers ahead for Matlock episode 17, “I Was That, Too.” The latest episode of Matlock brings a pivotal confrontation between Madeline and Olympia, unraveling a significant dilemma for Kathy Bates’ character as the show heads into its second season. Initially marketed as a reboot of the cherished Andy Griffith classic, the 2024 version of Matlock transcends this expectation; it operates not as a direct continuation but rather as a standalone narrative featuring an entirely new character inspired by Griffith’s legacy.
Madeline Kingston, portrayed by Bates, adopts a new identity to infiltrate Jacobson Moore. Her mission? To uncover the concealment of documents that could have prevented the tragic opioid-related death of her daughter. Though Bates stands at the forefront, she is supported by a talented ensemble cast, including Skye P. Marshall as Olympia. Their complex friendship serves as the emotional core of the show, making their clash in “I Was That, Too”particularly impactful.
Madeline Legally Changes Her Name from Kingston to Matlock
Bates’ Character Ensures Her New Identity is Impeccably Concealed
The events of episode 17 are distinctly divided into two story arcs. On one side, Sarah and Billy navigate an unexpected divorce case that requires them to work through the night. Meanwhile, Olympia interrogates Madeline regarding her true identity and intentions within Jacobson Moore. As tensions rise, with Olympia threatening to involve the police, Madeline wields a well-prepared defense, asserting her legal rights: her employer is unlawfully detaining her, and there are no charges that could implicate her.
To prepare for her undercover role at Jacobson Moore, Madeline went to great lengths to establish a robust false identity. This includes more than just erasing her online footprint; she made a significant legal change, adopting the name Madeline Matlock. This move goes beyond mere precaution—it holds substantial implications for her character’s development and the overarching narrative as Matlock progresses into its second season on CBS.
Kathy Bates Can Retain Her Identity as Madeline Matlock in Season 2
Matlock Maintains Its Title
When the promise of resolving the main plotline in its inaugural season was set, questions arose regarding its association with the original show. The name “Matlock”is linked to her assumed identity, but her real name is Kingston. Once her deception is unveiled, using the name Matlock might seem inappropriate. However, with Bates’ character now fully embracing her legal name change, she can continue to be Matlock, preserving the show’s title integrity.
This narrative twist raises intriguing questions about how the ongoing Wellbrexa mystery will unfold. For Madeline to remain “Matlock,”her revenge scheme must stay under wraps. Any public revelation of her true identity as Madeline Kingston would complicate the plot significantly, as this would challenge the show’s title’s relevance moving forward.