Elsbeth & Matlock: How to Watch CBS Legal Dramas Tonight

CBS is airing new episodes of its legal dramas, “Matlock” and “Elsbeth,” tonight, February 26, 2026, with “Matlock” preceding “Elsbeth” in the network’s primetime lineup. “Elsbeth” will premiere its midseason return at 10 p.m. Eastern Time, immediately following a new installment of “Matlock.”

The return of both series marks a strategic programming move by CBS, which initially previewed episodes of “Matlock” and “Elsbeth” outside their typical Thursday timeslot last fall to generate anticipation for the season. The season 2 premiere of “Matlock” debuted on October 12, followed by the season 3 premiere of “Elsbeth.” Both shows then settled into their regular Thursday night schedule beginning October 16.

CBS has renewed both “Matlock” and “Elsbeth” for additional seasons. “Matlock” has been picked up for a third season, while “Elsbeth” will return for a fourth season as part of CBS’s 2026-2027 broadcast season. The network announced renewals for a total of 16 series on January 22, 2026, including “Tracker,” “George & Mandy’s First Marriage,” “Fire Country,” “NCIS,” and “Survivor.”

“Elsbeth” stars Carrie Preston, with Wendell Pierce also featuring in the cast. Carra Patterson will continue in a recurring role as Kaya. Sarah Steele, known for her work on “The Good Fight,” has also joined the cast this season as Marissa Gold, a mayoral campaign manager. The relationship between Elsbeth Tascioni and Alec Bloome, orchestrated in part by Gold, is developing, with both characters exhibiting mutual interest.

Season 4 of “Elsbeth” is expected to premiere in the fall of 2026, likely in either September or October. The network has not yet announced specific premiere dates for the new season. CBS has also renewed “Ghosts,” “FBI,” “Boston Blue,” and “Sheriff Country” for future seasons.