The new series “Matlock” has the same title as the hit series that starred Andy Griffith (1986-1995) as defense attorney Ben Matlock. However, this time around, Kathy Bates is Madeline Matlock, who is also an attorney. Having just rejoined the working world, she finds being an older woman among all the younger people a bit daunting but worthwhile. And the show was conceived with Bates in mind as the star.

Bates, who recently spoke to some television media, admitted, “I just feel really lucky.” She is delighted with the storyline and her character. “I get to play all of those levels with everything I’ve learned in the last 50 years.” Madeline Matlock, Bates explained, experiences a struggle between her work environment and her home life with her husband. As a women who was out of the workforce for a long time, she enjoys the fulfillment of being back on the job.

As the veteran actress points out, there are many facets to Matty’s life. “Playing each scene is like sort of creating a little bead on a necklace,” she said.

When asked if she watched the original “Matlock,” she explained how she began her career in the theater and admitted she wasn’t too much of a television watcher. “But I did watch it a little bit. And of course, I’ve been a huge fan, just as an actor, of Andy Griffith.”

As for the new series, when she first read the script, she was overwhelmed and told Executive Producer Jennie Snyder Urman not to change a word. She knew the role would be challenging but also fun to play and interesting for the viewers.

Bates said, “A woman my age would never have such a role. Never. And the complexity of the role and the writing, I pinch myself every day.” She added, “I’ve only been interested in doing the best work I can possibly do. And I think, as I said earlier, to be able to bring all those facets that I’ve learned from doing all those different kinds of roles into this, I’m glad I stuck around for it.”

Bates won an Oscar in 1991 for her performance in the film “Misery” and she has been nominated for several others. She also won the Critics Choice Award in 1999 for her role in “Primary Colors” and has garnered accolades for both comedy and drama.

Viewers can watch “Matlock” starring Bates on CBS and it is also available to stream on Paramount+.