Matlock (1986)
S05E14 The Critic
Episode Overview
Matlock has been friends with Sam Spelvin since he was a child, so he decides to help with Sam's play, Lovers and Lawyers. However, the production turns out to be dreadful. When prominent critic John Bosley Hackett, who deemed it one of the worst plays ever, is discovered murdered, Sam becomes the prime suspect. Matlock steps in to defend him, postponing his fee until they know if the play succeeds. As he investigates, Matlock uncovers several individuals who had motives to wish Hackett dead and were eager to see Sam's play flop.