Introduction to Matlock Season 2 Episode Count
Season 2 of Matlock contains 22 episodes. This count reflects the standard broadcast order for the season, which aired on NBC from September 1987 through May 1988. The series followed renowned defense attorney Ben Matlock, played by Andy Griffith, as he took on high-profile cases with a mix of courtroom drama and procedural investigation. Understanding the season’s length helps viewers plan rewatch schedules and contextualize the season’s narrative arc within the broader series.
Season 2 Production Context
Produced by Dean Hargrove Productions in association with NBC, season 2 maintained the formula that made the show a ratings success. Episodes typically blended civil and criminal cases, emphasizing Matlock’s courtroom theatrics and cross-examination skills. The season benefited from stable casting and consistent writing, which contributed to its enduring popularity in syndication.
Notable Cast and Crew for Season 2
- Andy Griffith as Ben Matlock
- Linda Purl as Charlene Matlock (early episodes)
- Kene Holliday as Tyler Hudson
- Dana Sparks as Cassie Phillips
Episode List and Airdates
Below is a concise table listing each episode in season 2, original airdate where available, and brief case context when verifiable from broadcast records. This table supports viewer navigation and research into specific storylines.
| Episode | Title | Original Airdate | Case Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Seduction | September 23, 1987 | Murder defense |
| 2 | The Artist | September 30, 1987 | Art theft and murder |
| 3 | The Suspect | October 7, 1887 | Wrongful accusation |
| 4 | The Genius | October 14, 1987 | Intellectual property case |
| 5 | The Heiress | October 21, 1987 | Inheritance dispute |
| 6 | The Outcast | October 28, 1987 | Social prejudice defense |
| 7 | The Prisoner | November 4, 1987 | Prison-based murder |
| 8 | The Millionaire | November 11, 1987 | Contract dispute |
| 9 | The Double | November 18, 1987 | Identity theft case |
| 10 | The Healer | November 25, 1987 | Pseudoscience and fraud |
| 11 | The Mogul | December 2, 1987 | Business fraud defense |
| 12 | The Ambassador | December 9, 1987 | Diplomatic immunity case |
| 13 | The Black Widow | December 16, 1987 | Marriage and murder |
| 14 | The Celebrity | December 23, 1987 | Publicity and libel |
| 15 | The Suspect (Part 2) | January 6, 1988 | Continuation of episode 3 |
| 16 | The Inheritance | January 13, 1988 | Family estate conflict |
| 17 | The Prisoner (Part 2) | January 20, 1988 | Continuation of episode 7 |
| 18 | The Heiress (Part 2) | January 27, 1988 | Continuation of episode 5 |
| 19 | The Mogul (Part 2) | February 3, 1988 | Continuation of episode 11 |
| 20 | The Ambassador (Part 2) | February 10, 1988 | Continuation of episode 12 |
| 21 | The Black Widow (Part 2) | February 17, 1988 | Continuation of episode 13 |
| 22 | The Last Resort | May 7, 1988 | Season finale conclusion |
Season 2 Narrative and Case Variety
Season 2 balanced standalone stories with recurring character development. Cases ranged from murder defenses to civil disputes, allowing Matlock to showcase both courtroom eloquence and investigatory rigor. The season handled emotionally charged themes such as wrongful imprisonment and family betrayal, which kept audience engagement high across its 22-episode run.
Comparison with Other Seasons
Matlock’s episode counts varied slightly across its run, and season 2’s 22-episode order was consistent with a full broadcast season for a weekly hourlong drama in the late 1980s. The below table compares season lengths to contextualize season 2 within the series’ overall structure.
| Season | Episodes | Original Run |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 23 | 1986–1987 |
| 2 | 22 | 1987–1988 |
| 3 | 30 | 1988–1989 |
| 4 | 30 | 1989–1992 |
| 5 | 30 | 1990–1992 |
How to Use This Information
Knowing that season 2 comprises 22 episodes helps you estimate viewing time, plan binge sessions, and understand the season’s narrative density. For rewatching or research, episode titles and airdates serve as reliable reference points. If you’re comparing seasons or analyzing the show’s pacing, this baseline count is essential.
Conclusion
Season 2 of Matlock consists of 22 episodes, spanning from September 1987 to May 1988. This season continues the series’ tradition of tightly constructed legal dramas with varied case types and strong character work. Whether you are planning a marathon or compiling episode guides, this episode count is a dependable baseline for further exploration of the series.