The highly anticipated mid-season finale of Matlock, titled “Call It a Christmas Gift,” is set to air Thursday at 9 p.m. on CBS, as showrunner and executive producer Jennie Snyder Urman offers insights into what fans can expect both from the finale and the upcoming second half of Season 2.
In exciting news for viewers, two new actors have been added to the recurring cast for this season. Sarah Wright Olsen, known from Parks and Recreation and American Made, will join the cast as Gwen, an efficiency expert scrutinizing the firm. Newcomer Henry Haber will take on the role of Hunter, a younger associate from the floater pool, characterized as a “bro.” Although their characters will not appear in the mid-season finale, both have already started their work on the show.
Urman clarified that Haber is not stepping in as a replacement for David Del Rio, who was dismissed from the series following an internal investigation into sexual assault allegations. Del Rio has denied these allegations, and Urman chose not to comment further on the situation but confirmed that Del Rio’s character, Billy Martinez, had already made his final appearance. Billy’s storyline will conclude off-screen, allowing for a narrative retreat that aligns with the overarching plot involving a significant merger at the firm.
The drive to introduce new characters is evident as Urman explained the need for fresh perspectives. “We want to give our characters different energies to react to, and different obstacles to overcome,” she stated, emphasizing a desire to explore how the established characters like Olympia and Matty will interact with Hunter’s more relaxed demeanor.
As tension builds, the mid-season finale promises to tip the scales on established dynamics between Olympia, portrayed by Skye P. Marshall, and Kathy Bates’ Matty, who have faced substantial conflict throughout the first half of the season. Viewers can expect unexpected developments, as the merger’s impact sparks unpredictable behavior among the cast, hinting at both dramatic confrontations and comedic moments.
Secrets are also set to unfold in the finale, leaving audiences questioning how unresolved conflicts will be addressed upon the show’s return on February 26. Urman emphasized the importance of consequences in this high-stakes narrative, particularly as it pertains to the pharma industry and personal losses faced by the characters.
The show remains a strong performer, having pulled in an impressive 13.4 million viewers across various platforms during its Season 2 premiere, placing it among the Top 3 series on broadcast. Recognition for the series continues to rise, with both Bates and Marshall nominated for Critics Choice Awards this year—marking their second consecutive nominations. Bates has also secured another nomination for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama TV Series at the Golden Globes.
Further insights and potential spoilers from Snyder Urman will be revealed after the upcoming mid-season finale, leaving fans eager for what’s next in the unfolding drama of Matlock.
