Kathy Bates Announces Retirement After Final Performance in Matlock Reboot
Kathy Bates has officially announced her retirement from acting, signaling that her role in the upcoming Matlock reboot will be her final performance. Despite her initial decision to step away from film, she took on the role after being offered the script. Bates expressed that the intensive work was exhausting, confirming that she is ready to conclude her remarkable career.
Kathy Bates has officially announced her retirement from acting, revealing that her participation in the upcoming Matlock reboot will mark her final role. The celebrated actress, known for iconic performances in films such as Fried Green Tomatoes and Misery, shared her emotional journey leading to this decision.
Kathy Bates Reflects on Her Journey
In an interview with The New York Times, Bates expressed the emotional and physical toll that the production of Matlock has taken on her. Despite her initial intention to retire before taking on this role, the offer was too appealing to refuse when her agent presented her with the script in January. She described her experience with the series as "exhausting," stating, "Everything I've prayed for, worked for, clawed my way up for, I am suddenly able to be asked to use all of it." Bates emphasized that this project is her "last dance" in the entertainment industry.
Matlock Reboot Set for Premiere
The Matlock reboot is scheduled to premiere on CBS on September 22, and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. The new series revives the original, which aired from 1986 to 1995, featuring Andy Griffith as lawyer Ben Matlock. The cast includes Jason Ritter, Skye P. Marshall, and Beau Bridges. Bates noted that the production of the 18 episodes was challenging, but her dedication to the series remained strong.
Fans React to Kathy's Retirement
The news of Bates’ retirement has sparked an emotional response from fans across social media platforms. Many expressed their admiration, with comments highlighting her remarkable career, including remarks like "We will miss you, Kathy," and "Hell of a career." Supporters praised her extraordinary contributions to the film industry, acknowledging the impact she has made throughout her time in Hollywood.
Kathy Bates' Health Journey
As Kathy prepares to retire, she also revealed significant changes in her personal health. After undergoing intense treatments for cancer, she displayed a noticeable weight loss of over 27 kilograms. Bates shared her journey involving managing Type Two Diabetes, emphasizing that it motivated her to transform her lifestyle. She credited her improved health to newfound habits and a positive mindset, stating that she now feels "in the best health" she has experienced in years.
Dealing with Health Challenges
Bates has not only faced challenges related to diabetes but also struggles with lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling in limbs due to excess fluid. Having battled cancer twice—first with stage one ovarian cancer in 2003 and later with a breast tumor in 2012—Bates has opened up about her health issues, shedding light on how they have shaped her life and career. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire many as she transitions into retirement.
