Normally, one would expect spoilers for this week's Matlock episode. But due to the 2024 TV schedule, we're in a hiatus. This gives new fans more time to catch up via Paramount+ and dive into the show's mysteries. Without a Thanksgiving episode, let's talk about what we hope to see in a Christmas episode.

Unwrap the Mysteries of Matlock's Christmas

Thanksgiving and the Hiatus

Just in case you're not up to speed on when Matlock will return, we know it will be at the top of December. Madeline Kingston (Kathy Bates) will have two more cases before the holidays. This hiatus gives us time to anticipate the upcoming holiday episodes.

It's a bit of a bummer not to have a Thanksgiving episode paired with football games, but it also means more time to build excitement for what's to come.

The Holiday-Flavored Episode

Now that we know we're getting a holiday episode, let's imagine the perfect pitch. The "A" story could focus on Matty Matlock as a single grandmother with a grandson who doesn't get along. Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) and Julian (Jason Ritter) might want to invite Matty and her grandson to a family dinner, bringing the family closer together.

This could be a heartwarming story that showcases the importance of family during the holidays.

Billy and Sarah's Plot

For the "B" story, Sarah (Leah Lewis) and Billy (David Del Rio) could grow their friendship over a group meal. Sarah might bring her crush Kira (Piper Curda), while Billy has his fiancée. Conflicts could arise, like Billy and his betrothed disagreeing on how Sarah should pursue Kira, adding some drama to the holiday episode.

This subplot shows the different relationships and challenges that can occur during the holidays.

The Christmas Cliffhanger

The potential cliffhanger could involve Howard (Beau Bridges) recognizing Madeline's husband Edwin (Sam Anderson), who is posing as someone he met through an online dating profile. Edwin could join the family without being left out.

This keeps us on the edge of our seats, wondering what will happen next.

Bringing Back Shae Banfield

If we're doing a Christmas episode, it's a great opportunity for Shae Banfield (Yael Grobglas) to return. She could learn the truth about Santa and get closer to uncovering Matty's second life.

This adds an extra layer of mystery and excitement to the episode.

Admittedly, this is all speculation, but Matlock will be back on December 5th at 9 p.m. ET with "Belly of the Beast." You can watch it on CBS or stream it through Paramount+. Let's see what surprises await us!