Kathy Bates, a veteran of the silver screen, stands poised to bid adieu to her illustrious decades-spanning acting journey. In a heartfelt interview gracing the pages of the New York Times on Sunday, the esteemed actress disclosed her intention to gracefully retire once CBS' upcoming legal drama, Matlock, concludes its run. "This is indeed my final curtain call," she proclaimed, her words resonating with a sense of poignancy.
Having already contemplated retirement in the aftermath of a particularly trying film shoot, where she confesses, "It consumed my every waking moment, making me wistful for the simplicity of a life unburdened by such talent," Bates' resolve was momentarily shaken. However, fate intervened in the form of a script that her agents presented, one that reignited her passion – Matlock, a modern take on the iconic Andy Griffith TV series.
Upon reading the script, Bates felt an instant kinship with the protagonist, a connection so profound that it felt like a divine calling. "All the prayers, the relentless perseverance, the uphill battles I've fought – suddenly, I was being asked to utilize every ounce of it," she reminisced, her voice tinged with both triumph and exhaustion.
Premiering on CBS on September 22nd, at 8/7c, Matlock showcases Bates in the role of Madeline Matlock, or 'Matty' for short, a septuagenarian who, having conquered the world in her prime, decides to reenter the fray at a prestigious law firm. Armed with her unassuming charm and cunning strategies, she fearlessly tackles cases, proving that age is just a number. (Watch the trailer for a sneak peek.) The ensemble cast includes Skye P. Marshall (Good Sam), Jason Ritter (Parenthood), David Del Rio (Maggie), and Leah Lewis (Nancy Drew), promising a thrilling blend of talent and intrigue.
Bates' legacy is etched in cinematic history, notably for her Oscar-winning portrayal of Annie Wilkes in the seminal psychological thriller Misery (1990). Her television credits are equally impressive, spanning Six Feet Under, The Office, Disjointed, Harry's Law, and a formidable five-season stint on American Horror Story. Her two Emmy Awards – one for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series (Two and a Half Men, 2012) and the other for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie (AHS: Coven, 2014) – are testament to her unparalleled versatility and talent. Her most recent foray into acting saw her share the screen with Nicole Kidman in Netflix's A Family Affair.
As she prepares to hang up her acting boots, Kathy Bates leaves behind a treasure trove of unforgettable performances, each one a testament to her unwavering dedication and artistic brilliance.
