Kathy Bates Reflects on Life Before ‘Matlock’ and Embracing New Opportunities
In an intriguing conversation with Billy Bob Thornton for Variety’s Actors on Actors, Kathy Bates opened up about her unexpected journey to star in Matlock, revealing a pivotal moment that could have altered her career trajectory forever.
A Shift from the Past
At 76, Bates is no stranger to the spotlight, yet she admitted to Thornton that she hadn’t originally tuned in to the classic version of Matlock. "People always ask me if I watched the original. To be honest, I didn’t find it necessary," she confessed, emphasizing her desire to carve out her own path with this new iteration of the legal drama. While she caught a couple of episodes to grasp its essence, Bates made it clear: “[The new series] is such a departure.”
A Role Designed for Her
What makes this role particularly special? Bates believes it was tailor-made for her. Thanks to creator Jennie Snyder Urman’s vision, the character she plays evolved from a younger iteration—a great-great-granddaughter of the legendary Andy Griffith—to someone who embodies the wisdom and experiences of older women. “Jennie took a stroll and reimagined what we needed to see on screen,” Bates remarked, highlighting the importance of representation for women often overlooked in Hollywood.
A Moment of Reflection
Bates revealed that she faced a crossroads in her career, contemplating a major life change amid her struggles to find substantial roles. “I was asking myself whether I wanted to sell my house and move to France to find peace,” she shared. She was grappling with the realization that many of the projects she loved were going unnoticed and that her roles felt increasingly diminished.
However, something shifted when she read Matlock. "At first, I thought it was just another episodic series—not my scene," she admitted. But that changed upon reaching a surprising twist in the script. "By the end, I was hooked; I knew I had to be part of this!"
The Future Looks Bright
With Bates back in the spotlight, audiences can look forward to how she will bring depth and charisma to Matlock in its upcoming season. The actress, known for her unforgettable performances in Misery and beyond, reminds us all that it’s never too late to embrace new chapters and redefine oneself. Stay tuned to see how this beloved icon continues to challenge perceptions and captivate audiences in her latest role.
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