In a heartwarming revelation that bridges generations of television royalty, Jason Ritter is opening up about how Kathy Bates' pitch-perfect impression of his legendary father, John Ritter, not only went viral but ultimately landed her a starring role alongside him in CBS's upcoming Matlock reboot.
The Impression That Started It All
The story begins not in a casting office, but at a casual social gathering. Jason Ritter recalls the moment Kathy Bates, a close family friend, decided to break out her spot-on impersonation of the late, great John Ritter. "She just launched into it," Jason told National Post, "and it was so eerily perfect, so full of his specific energy, that it was both hilarious and incredibly moving."
That spontaneous performance was captured on video and quickly spread across social media, charming fans of the Three's Company star and introducing his unique comedic genius to a new generation.
From Viral Moment to Casting Coup
As fate would have it, the timing was impeccable. The new Matlock series, which stars Bates as the brilliant Madeline Matlock, was in development. The producers were searching for the right actor to play her son. When Jason Ritter's name came up, the viral video wasn't just a talking point—it was a testament to the deep, pre-existing bond between the two actors.
"That video absolutely played a part in me getting the role," Jason confirmed. "It showed this incredible connection we already had. Kathy didn't just know my dad as a celebrity; she understood his spirit, his humour. That connection translates directly to our on-screen relationship."
A Legacy of Laughter and Friendship
For Jason, working with Bates is more than just another job; it's a continuation of a family legacy. John Ritter and Kathy Bates had been close friends for years before his tragic passing in 2003. Bates even delivered a heartfelt eulogy at his funeral, speaking to the depth of their friendship.
"There's a level of comfort and trust that you can't manufacture," Jason explained. "When we're on set, I feel like I'm working with family. She carries a piece of my dad with her, and that brings a special authenticity to our scenes together."
The new Matlock promises to blend legal drama with character-driven storytelling, and the real-life history between its two leads provides a foundation that any casting director would dream of. It's a powerful reminder that in Hollywood, sometimes the most compelling stories happen behind the scenes.
