Why Kathy Bates’ Matlock Reboot Deserves to Crash the Emmys 2025
While Emmy ballots are bursting with the usual prestige dramas, the Matlock reboot is sneaking in with a quiet storm. Kathy Bates reinvents the courtroom legend with wit, grit, and gravitas, and it is time the Emmys woke up. Procedural drama? More like prestige disguised in legalese.
In a year dominated by streaming prestige dramas, Kathy Bates’ Matlock reboot is quietly building a compelling case to shake up Emmy expectations — and it deserves to crash the party.
Matlock isn’t your typical procedural. This 2024 reboot reimagines the classic courtroom drama with Bates as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a fierce, witty, and deeply nuanced legal powerhouse. Far from a nostalgic retread, the show tackles urgent contemporary issues like corporate corruption, ageism, and systemic injustice, all wrapped in sharp writing and emotional storytelling that resonates across generations
Yet, despite its strengths, Matlock faces an uphill battle against the Emmy’s long-standing bias against network procedurals. Historically, the Emmys have overlooked acclaimed series simply because they don’t fit the “prestige” mold favored by voters, often streaming dramas with bigger budgets and flashier production values. Shows like The Wire and Better Call Saul famously suffered from this snub, despite critical acclaim and devoted fanbases. Procedurals have been dismissed as formulaic background noise but Matlock proves that solid structure can deliver profound, socially relevant storytelling.
Kathy Bates’ performance is a masterclass in acting. At 77, she could become the oldest nominee ever for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, bringing a powerful commentary on experience and wisdom in today’s world. Her portrayal is both commanding and empathetic, making every courtroom scene a lesson in justice and humanity
As Emmy voters prepare their final ballots, Matlock represents a chance to break free from outdated snobbery and recognize quality television beyond the streaming bubble. It’s not just Emmy-worthy — it’s Emmy necessary. If the Emmys want to prove they’re paying attention to the full spectrum of powerful storytelling in 2025, they need to say “yes, Your Honour” to Matlock and Kathy Bates