Matlock Cast List
- Matlock, The Edge of Night, When the Whistle BlowsAlice Hirson (born March 10, 1929) is an American actress best known for her roles on television. She began her career on stage, before roles on the daytime soap operas. She is best known for her roles as Mavis Anderson in the CBS prime time soap opera Dallas and as Lois Morgan, the mother of the title character on the ABC sitcom Ellen.
- Sons of Anarchy, Profiler, Sleeper CellAlly Walker, a highly accomplished actress and director, has been an iconic figure in the entertainment industry for decades. Born on August 25, 1961, in Tullahoma, Tennessee, she initially pursued a career in genetic engineering before finding her true calling in acting. She holds a degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, Santa Cruz, exemplifying her intellectual prowess. Walker's transition from a science background to a creative arts field showcases her multi-faceted personality and adaptability. Walker's acting career began in the mid-1980s with minor roles in television commercials before she made her mark with significant roles in popular TV series. One of her most renowned performances was in NBC's crime drama series Profiler, where she portrayed the character of Dr. Samantha Waters, a detective with the ability to profile criminals. This role earned her recognition and critical acclaim, solidifying her position as a versatile and talented actress. Besides this, Walker also shone brightly in the FX series Sons of Anarchy where she played the role of Agent June Stahl, once again demonstrating her flair for complex characters. However, Ally Walker's talent isn't confined to acting alone. She took a leap into direction and screenwriting with the film For Norman‚ Wherever You Are, which won the Best Short at the Seattle International Film Festival. This venture marked a new chapter in her career, extending her creative influence beyond acting. Despite having a diverse career, Walker has managed to maintain a strong presence in the entertainment industry, embodying a rare blend of intellect, talent, and versatility that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
- The Andy Griffith Show, Matlock, Frosty's Winter WonderlandAndy Griffith, born on June 1, 1926, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, embodies the heart and soul of American entertainment. Griffith's career spanned over half a century, cementing him as an iconic figure in television history. His journey began with humble roots in theater and escalated to national fame as he breathed life into characters that would become household names. Griffith is best known for his portrayal of Sheriff Andy Taylor in The Andy Griffith Show, which aired from 1960 to 1968. The show featured Griffith's character as a kind-hearted law enforcement officer, nurturing his son Opie while maintaining peace and order in the fictional town of Mayberry. His performance struck a chord with viewers, perfectly blending humor, warmth, and wisdom. This role catapulted him into the limelight, making him a beloved figure and earning him the moniker of 'America's Favorite Sheriff'. However, Griffith was not just a one-trick pony. In addition to his sterling career in television, he also had a successful stint as a recording artist. His 1953 comedic monologue What It Was, Was Football gained significant popularity, indicating his prowess beyond acting. Moreover, Griffith showcased his versatility as he played a completely different character, attorney Ben Matlock in the legal drama Matlock. Despite the stark contrast from Sheriff Taylor, Matlock further solidified Griffith's reputation as a versatile actor. His body of work transcended generations and reaffirmed his status as a true entertainment legend. Andy Griffith passed away on July 3, 2012, but his legacy continues to entertain and inspire.
- Matlock, Island Son, Pensacola: Wings of GoldBrynn Thayer (born October 4, 1949) is an American actress, known for her roles on television.
Clarence Gilyard
Walker, Texas Ranger, MatlockClarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. (December 24, 1955 – November 28, 2022) was an American actor, college professor, and author who had been featured in movies, television and regional theatre since 1980. He was sometimes credited as Clarence A. Gilyard. Gilyard was known for his roles as second private investigator and right-hand man Conrad McMasters to Ben Matlock (played by Andy Griffith) on the legal drama series Matlock from 1989 to 1993; Pastor Bruce Barnes in the Left Behind movie trilogy; Cordell Walker's (played by Chuck Norris) Texas Ranger partner, James "Jimmy" Trivette, in the 1990s crime drama Walker, Texas Ranger; Theo, the terrorist computer expert in Die Hard; and Lieutenant (junior grade) Marcus "Sundown" Williams in Top Gun.- Matlock, Nash Bridges, Woke Up DeadDaniel Randall James Roebuck (born March 4, 1963) is an American character actor of television, film, and theatre. His best known roles include Deputy Marshal Robert Biggs in The Fugitive and its spinoff film U.S. Marshals, Jay Leno in The Late Shift, and Dr. Leslie Arzt in Lost, as well as numerous Rob Zombie and Don Coscarelli films. He is also best known for his role as Cliff Lewis, Ben Matlock's private investigator, on Matlock from 1992 until 1995.
- Matlock, The Governor & J.J.Juliana Edith "Julie" Sommars (born April 15, 1942) is an American actress. She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy for her role in The Governor & J.J. in 1970, and was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television for Matlock in 1990.
- Matlock, Carter CountryKenneth Earl "Kene" Holliday (born June 25, 1949) is an American actor of stage, film, and television. He is known for his role as Ben Matlock's original private investigator, Tyler Hudson on Matlock and as Sgt. Curtis Baker on Carter Country from 1977 until 1979.
- The Edge of NightDavid Wesley Froman (December 31, 1938 – February 8, 2010) was an American actor, born in Miami, Oklahoma. His parents were Guy and Gertrude (Helm) Froman. He taught for many years at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO), where he was professor of speech and theater. He was best known for his recurring role as Lieutenant Bob Brooks on the popular television series Matlock.
- Happy Days, Matlock, Port CharlesLinda Purl (born September 2, 1955) is an American actress and singer, known for her roles as Sheila Munroe in the 1982 horror film Visiting Hours, Pam Beesley's mother Helene in The Office, and Ben Matlock's daughter Charlene Matlock for the first season of the television series Matlock.
- Matlock, The Doctors, SidekicksNancy Elizabeth Stafford (born June 5, 1954) is an American actress, speaker and author, known for her roles on television. She came to prominence in the 1980s as Michelle Thomas, law partner, on five seasons of Matlock. She later hosted a syndicated TV series called Main Floor (1995–2005), a show about fashion and beauty.
- The Dick Van Dyke Show, Diagnosis: Murder, The Phil Silvers ShowBorn Richard Wayne Van Dyke in West Plains, Missouri, on December 13, 1925, Dick Van Dyke grew up in Danville, Illinois, where he discovered his passion for performance. After serving in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, Van Dyke returned to civilian life and began his career in radio before transitioning to the stage and eventually, the screen. Van Dyke's breakthrough came in 1961 when he starred in the CBS sitcom The Dick Van Dyke Show. His portrayal of Rob Petrie, a comedy writer navigating work and family life, earned him three Emmy Awards and established him as a household name. This success paved the way for his memorable roles in iconic films like Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, where he showcased his talents as a singer and dancer. His performance as Bert in Mary Poppins is particularly revered, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Original Song. Beyond his acting career, Van Dyke has been equally influential in his humanitarian efforts. He has devoted significant time and resources to various charitable organizations, notably The Midnight Mission, a Los Angeles-based program dedicated to aiding the city's homeless population. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Screen Actors Guild's Life Achievement Award. Despite the passing of decades, Dick Van Dyke's impact continues to reverberate through the entertainment industry, inspiring countless performers and delighting audiences worldwide.
- Matlock, The Van Dyke Show, Sunday DinnerKari Lizer (born August 26, 1961) is an American actress, writer, and producer. She was the creator and executive producer of the CBS sitcom The New Adventures of Old Christine. In May 2010, CBS cancelled Old Christine after five seasons. Upon its cancellation, Lizer slammed the network and suggested the decision to cancel the show was sexist. Previously, she had been co-executive producer of Will & Grace for three years.Lizer also created the comedy Maggie Winters.As an actress, Lizer played Cassie Phillips on Matlock, Diana Benedict on Sunday Dinner,:1035 and Chris Burgess on The Van Dyke Show.:1137
- The Andy Griffith Show, Three's Company, Fantasy IslandDon Knotts, born as Jesse Donald Knotts on July 21, 1924, in Morgantown, West Virginia, emerged as a celebrated figure in the world of entertainment. With humble beginnings as the youngest of four sons in a struggling family, Knotts' rise to fame is a testament to his perseverance and talent. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Army before pursuing his passion for acting, starting his career in the late 1940s with minor roles in radio and television. However, it was his role as the comical yet lovable Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show that catapulted him to stardom, earning him five Emmy Awards. Knotts' prowess in comedy extended beyond television, solidifying his reputation in the film industry as well. His memorable performances in movies such as The Incredible Mr. Limpet, The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, and The Shakiest Gun in the West showcased his impeccable comedic timing and skill. Despite often being typecast as a nervous character, Knotts demonstrated versatility in his career, transitioning into dramatic roles in later years. He notably appeared in the critically acclaimed series Matlock, once again sharing the screen with Andy Griffith, and lending his voice to the animated series Scooby-Doo, as the quirky landlord, Mr. Furley. Don Knotts' impact on the entertainment industry extends well beyond his life span, as his comedic genius continues to inspire aspiring artists. He passed away on February 24, 2006, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and fond memories. From the small town in West Virginia to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Knotts' journey serves as an inspiration for many. His innate ability to make audiences laugh, paired with his humility and commitment to his craft, made him not just a well-respected actor, but a beloved figure in American popular culture.
- Rescue Me, Love Monkey, The Royal FamilyLarenz Tate (born September 8, 1975) is an American film and television actor. Tate is best known for his roles as Peter Waters in Crash and as O-Dog in the 1993 teen hood drama film, Menace II Society. Tate's other films include Dead Presidents, Love Jones, Why Do Fools Fall in Love, A Man Apart, Waist Deep, Biker Boyz, and Ray.
- Frasier, Justice League, Hot in ClevelandPeri Gilpin (born Peri Kay Oldham; May 27, 1961) is an American actress. She portrayed Roz Doyle in the U.S. television series Frasier, and Kim Keeler in the ABC Family television drama Make It or Break It.
- Scooby-Doo! Mystery, Inc., MissingVivica A. Fox, born in South Bend, Indiana on July 30, 1964, is a multi-faceted American actress and producer, renowned for her dynamic roles across both the big and small screens. Her acting journey began in 1983 when she moved to California to pursue her dream. She first gained recognition in daytime television, particularly for her role on the NBC soap opera Days of Our Lives. However, it was her performance in blockbuster films that elevated her status to a global sensation. Fox's breakthrough moment arrived in 1996 when she starred as Jasmine Dubrow in the mega-hit sci-fi film Independence Day. Her portrayal of a brave and resourceful exotic dancer proved her versatility and acting prowess, propelling her into mainstream Hollywood. Over the ensuing years, Fox continued to impress audiences with roles in high-profile films like Set It Off, Soul Food, and Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill series. Her role as Vernita Green in Kill Bill further established her as an actress capable of delivering powerful performances in diverse genres. In addition to her acting career, Fox has also left indelible marks as a producer. She produced and starred in the Lifetime Network's drama series Missing, earning an NAACP Image Award nomination for her efforts. Moreover, she launched her own wig line, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit. Despite her stardom, Fox has remained connected to her roots, frequently participating in philanthropic pursuits. Vivica A. Fox's journey from a soap opera actress to a Hollywood star underscores her resilience, talent, and dedication, making her an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
