Matlock Timeline ( Real )

birth
June 1, 1926

Andy Griffith's Birth

Andy Griffith, the actor who played Ben Matlock, was born.

career_start
1952

Andy Griffith Begins Acting Career

Andy Griffith started his acting career in theater and television.

tv_premiere
March 3, 1986

Matlock TV Series Premiere

The television show Matlock premiered on NBC, introducing the character Ben Matlock.

tv_network_change
1989

Matlock Moves to ABC

After NBC cancelled Matlock, the show was picked up by ABC and continued to air new episodes.

tv_series_end
May 4, 1995

End of Matlock TV Series

The Matlock TV series ended after nine seasons and 194 episodes.

death
July 3, 2012

Andy Griffith's Death

Andy Griffith, the lead actor in Matlock, passed away.

Matlock Timeline ( Fictional )

career_start
circa 1960

Ben Matlock becomes a lawyer

Ben Matlock begins his career as a defense attorney, marking the start of his journey to becoming a renowned legal expert.

career_milestone
early 1980s

Matlock establishes office in Atlanta

Ben Matlock sets up his private legal practice in Atlanta, Georgia, where he will handle most of his high-profile cases.

court_case
1986

Case: 'The Legacy'

Matlock defends a wealthy family against wrongful death accusations, showcasing his skill in solving intricate mystery cases.

team_change
1987

Ben Matlock hires Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas joins Matlock’s team as an investigator and legal assistant, contributing to many case investigations.

court_case
1988

Case: 'The Secret'

Matlock uncovers secrets behind a murder case involving family betrayal, demonstrating his investigative prowess.

career_milestone
1989

Ben Matlock travels to Los Angeles for a case

Matlock takes on a high-profile case outside of Atlanta, expanding his reach and reputation.

team_change
1993

Ben Matlock partners with Conrad McMasters

Conrad McMasters joins as an assistant and private investigator, aiding Matlock in complex cases.

court_case
1994

Case: 'The Grand Gamble'

Matlock defends a professional gambler accused of murder, employing his trademark strategy to reveal the truth.

team_change
1998

Ben Matlock’s daughter Charlene joins the team

Charlene Matlock becomes part of her father’s legal practice, assisting with investigations and legal research.