Kathy Bates has experienced a significant career resurgence in her mid-70s, proving that it is never too late to become a leading lady. After assuming she was heading toward semi-retirement, the actress landed the role of Matty in the CBS drama "Matlock." The reboot follows a senior who joins a law firm and refuses to be underestimated by her peers. Her highly-regarded performance earned her a Critics' Choice Award for best actress in a drama series and set an Emmys record as the oldest nominee for lead actress in a drama.
Bates' path in the entertainment industry was not always linear. Following prestigious film roles in the 1990s, including "Titanic" and "Primary Colors," she reached a pivotal moment when she won an Oscar in 1991 for her portrayal of Annie Wilkes in "Misery." Despite this major accolade, she later struggled to book roles that showcased her full potential. She recalls the disappointment of having her comedy series "Harry Law" canceled because it attracted an older viewership. However, Bates eventually found her footing on television with "American Horror Story," winning an Emmy for Season 3, and subsequently with "Matlock."
Her inspiring journey and ability to believe in herself, even when those closest to her did not celebrate her as she deserved, led to her selection for a featured quote of the day. In a 2024 interview on CBS Sunday Morning, Bates revealed that her mother did not react as anticipated to her Oscar win. When speaking with Ben Mankiewicz, Bates shared that her mother remarked, "I don't know what all the excitement [is] about, you didn't discover the cure for cancer." Although disappointed by this response to a major career achievement, Bates initially wondered if she was at fault for forgetting to thank her mother during her acceptance speech. Mankiewicz replayed the moment during the interview to prove that she had not disregarded her parent.
Relieved to know she had acknowledged her mother on stage, Bates reflected on their complex relationship. She stated, "Even though we had so many difficulties, I wanted her spirit to come into me." This sentiment highlights how, following her mother's death, Bates wished for her parent to live vicariously through her, acknowledging the sacrifices made to raise her and set her up for success. Despite not receiving praise from her mother, Bates continued to make strides in her career hoping to make her parents proud. She recalled how her parents had to return to work at an old age to pay for her college tuition at Southern Methodist University.
Bates' longevity as a performer has inspired others to pursue their dreams regardless of their stage in life. Audiences can expect to see her back on screens for "Matlock" Season 3, which is set to release in 2027. Beyond this recent reflection, Bates has shared other insights in interviews throughout 2024 and 2025. She noted that she always wanted to be the best she could be, aiming for a career that taught empathy toward unattractive characters. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of women not losing faith in what they have learned, urging them to stand up for themselves rather than dwelling on regrets.
Sources: TVLine.