Remember When Randy Travis Was On “Matlock”?

In the mid-1990s, Randy Travis was a household name in the world of country music. With hit songs like “Forever and Ever, Amen” and “On the Other Hand,” Travis had become a staple in the industry. However, in 1992, Travis took a break from his music career to pursue an acting opportunity on the popular television show Matlock.

Matlock, which aired from 1986 to 1995, starred actor Andy Griffith as Ben Matlock, a defense attorney who solved cases with his wit and charm. The show was a hit with audiences and attracted many guest stars throughout its nine-season run. Travis appeared in the season six episode titled “The Big Payoff,” which aired on February 28, 1992.

In the episode, Travis played Billy Wheeler, a “down-on-his-luck” country singer who Matlock hires to paint his house. They share a few scenes together and at one point, a jam session!

Travis’s appearance on Matlock was a significant moment in his career. It showcased his acting abilities and gave him exposure to a new audience. The episode also featured Travis performing his song “Life of the Party,” which was a bonus for his fans who were eager to see him on television.

Travis returned on season later, in 1993, to reprise his role as Billy Wheeler. In the episode titled “The Mark,” Wheeler needs Matlock’s help when he is accused of killing a con artist.

Although Travis continued to pursue acting opportunities, he never strayed too far from his music career. In 1996, he returned to the country music scene with the album Full Circle. He went on to release several more albums and continued to tour throughout the 2000s.

Overall, Randy Travis’s appearance on Matlock was a memorable moment in both his career and the show’s history. It showcased his talent as an actor and brought a new level of excitement to the popular series. Fans of both Travis and Matlock will always remember his performance as Billy Wheeler and the impact he had on the show.